Hedgehogs, instantly recognized for their spiny appearance and endearing behavior, have captivated animal lovers everywhere. From rolling up in a tight ball to displaying nocturnal adventures, hedgehogs reveal remarkable traits that set them apart in nature. Discover the delightful secrets behind these spiky mammals.
Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs live across Europe, Asia, and Africa. They’ve even made their way to New Zealand thanks to human introduction.
These tiny mammals are covered in 5,000 to 7,000 sharp, hollow spines made of keratin—the same protein in hair and nails.
Despite their tough look, they are not related to porcupines. Instead, their ancestors link more closely to shrews.
Whenever danger lurks, hedgehogs curl tightly into a ball, letting only their stiff spines face outward for defense.
During winter, hedgehogs hibernate in well-hidden nests. Amazingly, they drop their body temperature to survive months without food.
Most hedgehogs sleep throughout the day and head out at night, relying on a keen nose and excellent hearing to hunt insects.
Although they have poor eyesight, they can spot movement with their nose and ears, easily finding beetles and worms in the dark.
For dinner, hedgehogs enjoy insects, slugs, snails, frogs, eggs, and even the occasional snake.
Babies, called hoglets, start with soft spines that harden just hours after birth, ensuring early protection.
Hedgehogs are known for “self-anointing”—they spread foamy saliva on their spines after tasting new or strong-smelling substances.
Typically, a hedgehog roams 2–4 kilometers every night, scaling fences, climbing, and even swimming quite well.
They make surprising sounds, from grunts and snuffles to hisses, especially when foraging or avoiding threats.
These animals are solitary and rarely form groups, except for brief moments during the breeding season.
While the average hedgehog lives about three to seven years in the wild, some reach up to ten years as pets.
Conservationists warn that hedgehog numbers are dropping due to habitat loss, so garden-friendly spaces help ensure their future.
