How can an animal that's so prickly also be adorable? We might not be able to answer that question, but if you want to learn more about these spiky critters, just check out the fun facts below!
The Basics
- Hedgehogs are mammals.
- Hedgehogs can live up to six years.
- Their scientific subfamily name is Erinaceinae.
- They are native to Europe, Asia, New Zealand and Africa - but they can be found as pets across the world now!
- Their natural habitat is farmland, woodland and sometimes suburban areas.
Hedghogs are named after the way they eat
All in a Name
Hedgehogs gained their name from their funny foraging habits, they like to go digging through hedges and bushes in search of their favorite foods: insects, worms, centipedes, snails, mice, frogs, and snakes. They have a long snout that helps them root around for food. Hedgehogs are nocturnal, so they like to hunt these small creatures at night - but don't worry, you'll know when they're around even when it's dark. They make grunting sounds the same way a pig does, that's where the "hog" part of their name comes in. During the day they like to sleep in bushes and nests. They have poor vision during the day, but a very good sense of smell and hearing.
Woodlands are a natural hedgehog habitat
Hedgehogs have another name they go by, "Gardener's Friend," this is because they like to hunt and munch on all the small things that like to take a bite out of flowers and small crops. Your pets may not like them as much though - they've been known to steal dog and cat food if it's left out!
Hedgehogs like to curl up!
Did You Know
- There are 15 different species of hedgehogs.
- Baby hedgehogs are born blind.
- In Britain their biggest predator is the badger.
- They generally like to be solitary.
- They generally have about 5000 spines, these spines last for a year and then fall and grow back.
- The spines are hollow and springy and controlled by msucles.
- Many people keep them as pets, but it's not legal everywhere.
- When they're scared or alarmed, they curl up into a ball with the spines on the outside.
- Some types of hedgehog hibernate over the winter.
- Hedgehogs are good swimmers, but anyone who has them as a pet knows that they like to relax and float on their back in water.
Have Your Say
Do you like hedgehogs? Let us know in the comments section below!
