9 Incredible Facts About Hedgehogs

Hedgehog

Hedgehogs Facts
04 Jul, 2024

Hedgehogs are adorable, spiny mammals with surprising traits often hidden behind their cute appearance. These miniquill, found in Europe, Africa, and Asia, have prickly spines covering their bodies except for their faces, legs, and bellies. 

Are you curious about how incredible these little thorns can be? This list uncovers the mysteries and unveils the incredible hedgehog facts that make them extraordinary.

9 Incredible Facts About Hedgehogs

1: Originally, They Weren’t Referred to As ‘Hedgehogs’

Yes, hedgehog was not the original name of these small creatures. Instead, they were known as “urchins.” However, the term “urchin” is now commonly associated with sea urchins, which were named for their spiky appearance that resembles hedgehogs. 

The name ‘hedgehog’ is derived from their habit of foraging under hedges and the hog-like snuffling sounds they make. 

2: Hedgehogs Are Carnivores

Despite their cute appearance, hedgehogs are formidable predators with a varied diet, which makes them lie among carnivorous animals. These spiky mammals primarily eat worms, slugs, earwigs, millipedes, beetles, and other small insects. They can also consume frogs, baby birds, snakes, bird eggs, and occasionally fruit. Hedgehogs rely on their acute sense of smell and sharp hearing to hunt, showcasing their prowess as effective carnivores in their native ecosystems.

3: Hedgehogs Are Nocturnal

Hedgehogs are nocturnal animals, which means they are more active during the night and prefer sleeping during the day. To protect themselves from disturbances and predators while resting, they hide away in their nests. Using the cloak of darkness, they navigate their surroundings with greater ease, minimizing the risk of encounters with predators while maximizing their chances of securing nourishment.

4: Hedgehogs Boast 5,000 – 7,000 Spines

One of the amazing hedgehog facts is that they boast over 5,000 to 7,000 spines adorned on their backs, which are modified hairs made of keratin (also found in human hair and nails). 

At birth, hedgehogs have fewer than 200 spines hidden under their skin. As they grow, these initial spines undergo a process called quilling, shedding to make way for the adult spines. Each spine lasts approximately one year before dropping out and being replaced. When threatened, hedgehogs roll into a ball, using powerful muscles to raise their spines for protection. 

5: Hedgehogs Come in 15 Different Species

There are 15 different species of hedgehogs worldwide, each with unique traits and habits. In the UK, the only native species is the European Hedgehog. 

Other species include the Amur Hedgehog, Southern White-breasted Hedgehog, Southern African Hedgehog, and Somali Hedgehog. While they all share a similar appearance, these species have subtle differences that distinguish them from each other.

6: Hedgehogs Have Poor Eyesight

Hedgehogs possess relatively poor eyesight, which suits their nocturnal lifestyle well. They can see the outlines of objects, like trees, and their color vision is limited to shades of cream and brown. With limited binocular vision and poor depth perception, their sight may seem lacking compared to diurnal animals. 

Despite these limitations, their vision suffices because hedgehogs are nocturnal, coming out at night to forage. Despite their visual limitations, hedgehogs adeptly use their keen sense of smell and acute hearing to locate food and maneuver in the dark.

7: Hedgehogs Are Lactose Intolerant

Hedgehogs are lactose intolerant, which means they lack the lactase enzyme required to break down lactose, which is the sugar present in milk.  

Feeding hedgehog cow’s milk or dairy products can lead to severe digestive issues and, in some cases, fatal consequences. Therefore, it’s crucial to avoid offering them milk and opt for water instead, especially if providing hydration is necessary. Ensuring a hedgehog’s diet aligns with their unique physiological needs helps maintain their health and well-being.

8: Hedgehogs Can Hibernate

Hedgehogs stand out among mammals as true hibernators. They enter a state known as torpor (a state of physical or mental inactivity) to conserve energy. This dormant phase typically spans from October to March. However, in milder winters, some hedgehogs may delay their hibernation, remaining active into November or December. Even a small percentage of hedgehogs may opt to forgo hibernation altogether. 

During hibernation, their body temperature decreases notably, and bodily functions slow down considerably. They refrain from eating or drinking, relying solely on stored body fat to sustain them through the winter months.

9: Group of Hedgehogs Is Called an Array

A collective term for a group of hedgehogs is either an “array” or a “prickle.” However, witnessing a group of hedgehogs is rare since they typically lead solitary lives. The exception occurs during the mating season. 

Conclusion

Hedgehogs are fascinating creatures with unique traits and behaviors. From their original name, “urchins,” to their carnivorous diet and nocturnal habits, hedgehogs offer a wealth of interesting facts. 

With 15 different species globally, the above-mentioned hedgehog facts reveal a captivating story of resilience, adaptation, and ingenuity.

FAQs

What are 5 interesting facts about hedgehogs?

1. Hedgehogs were originally called “urchins.”
2. They are carnivores with a varied diet.
3. They are nocturnal.
4. They have 5,000 to 7,000 spines.
5. They can hibernate.

How fast can hedgehogs run?

Hedgehogs can run at speeds of up to 6 miles per hour.

How long do hedgehogs live?

Hedgehogs typically live for 4 to 6 years in the wild.

What is the hedgehog’s enemy?

Foxes, wolves, and mongooses are the common enemies of hedgehogs.

Why is it called a hedgehog?

The name ‘hedgehog’ comes from their foraging habits under hedges and the hog-like snuffling sounds they make.

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