Hedgehogs are some of the most fascinating creatures on Earth. Covered in prickly spines, these nocturnal animals are often elusive, making them even more intriguing.
Ready for some hedgehog fun facts? In this article, we’ll explore some interesting tidbits about these animals, from their varied species and global distribution to their nocturnal behavior, diet, defenses, and unique behaviors.
What’s in a name?
The name “hedgehog” comes from a combination of two things: their nesting habits and the pig-like noises they make. Hedgehogs build nests, or “hedges,” for shelter. And when they forage for food, they grunt like little pigs!
Speaking of foraging, hedgehogs are nocturnal hunters. They come out at night to feast on insects, worms, and other small invertebrates.
In some regions, people call them “urchins,” though that name is more commonly associated with sea creatures.
Spiny Armor: Defense and Adaptations
Let’s talk about the hedgehog’s most distinctive feature: its spiny exterior.
The Hedgehog’s Quills
Hedgehogs have thousands of spines — around 5,000 to 7,000 — that protect them from predators. These spines are made of keratin, the same material that makes up our fingernails and hair.
When a hedgehog feels threatened, it uses those spines for defense. The hedgehog’s first line of defense is to raise the quills, which can be painful to touch. If that doesn’t work, the hedgehog has another trick up its sleeve.
Rolling into a Ball
When a hedgehog feels really threatened, it can roll itself into a tight ball, with its spines pointing outwards. This is a natural defense mechanism that protects the hedgehog’s vulnerable underbelly. Special muscles allow the hedgehog to curl up tightly, making it a prickly, unappetizing meal for predators like badgers.
Habitat and habits
Nocturnal life
Hedgehogs are nocturnal mammals, so they’re generally most active at night. While you’re sleeping, they’re out foraging for food, sometimes traveling up to 2 miles in a single night.
Solitary creatures
For the most part, hedgehogs prefer to live alone. They’re solitary creatures except during mating season. Did you know that a group of hedgehogs is called an array?
Habitat diversity
Hedgehogs have adapted to survive in a wide range of habitats, including deserts, forests, and city parks. They’re pretty versatile little critters!
What do hedgehogs eat?
Hedgehogs use their long snouts to hunt for insects, worms, caterpillars, and berries. When they’re on the prowl, they rely on their hearing and sense of smell to find a snack.
Because they’re always on the lookout for pests, hedgehogs are a welcome sight in many gardens. A single hedgehog can keep a garden free of snails, slugs, and other unwanted critters.
Hibernation and Torpor
Some hedgehog species hibernate during the winter months, but not all of them do. Hibernation is a deep sleep that allows them to conserve energy when food is scarce and the weather is cold.
Some hedgehogs also experience something called torpor, which is like a short-term hibernation. Torpor might only last for part of a day, and it’s more common in desert climates where temperatures fluctuate quickly.
Hibernation can last as long as six months in the coldest regions.
Self-Anointing: A Peculiar Behavior
One of the strangest things about hedgehogs is their self-anointing behavior. When they encounter a new smell or taste, they’ll often lick it, then create a foamy saliva which they spread all over their spines.
Scientists aren’t sure why they do this. Some think it’s a way to clean themselves, while others believe it could be a defense mechanism or a form of communication.
Whatever the reason, it’s a truly unique and fascinating behavior!
Health and Conservation
Hedgehogs can carry certain infections that can spread to people. It’s always a good idea to wash your hands after handling one.
Currently, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists hedgehogs as a species of “least concern.” Still, you can help them thrive by making your garden hedgehog-friendly.
Closing Thoughts
From their pointy quills to their adorable snouts, hedgehogs are truly unique creatures. As natural pest controllers, they also play an important role in local ecosystems.
These amazing animals need our help. Learning about and appreciating hedgehogs is the first step in protecting them for generations to come.