Hedgehog

Hello! I’m a Hedgehog, a small, spiny mammal with a unique charm. My sharp quills provide excellent defence against predators, and I can roll into a tight ball, presenting only my spiky exterior when threatened. I’m an insectivore & carnivore, feasting on bugs, worms, frogs, lizards, snakes, and eggs. At night, I become active, scurrying around for food and exploring my environment.

Furthermore, my keen sense of smell helps me locate tasty food hidden in the undergrowth. My ability to roll into a tight ball is my secret weapon, protecting my vulnerable underside from danger. Whether kept as a pet or admired in the wild, my curious nature and adorable appearance make me a beloved creature.

I have a clever trick that helps me protect myself from predators. My name, hedgehog, reflects my lifestyle; you'll often find my cosy nest tucked away in dense hedgerows. I have the unique ability to consume certain poisonous plants, which helps me produce frothy saliva. I then apply this saliva to my spines, creating a natural barrier that obscures my scent and delivers a nasty surprise to any predator foolish enough to take a bite.

During the long, cold months of winter, I can hibernate, although not all of my kind choose to do so. This makes me one of only three mammals in the UK known to enter hibernation. It’s pretty rare to catch a glimpse of me during the day, and if I happen to be out in the sunlight, it may signify that I’m not feeling well and need help. Despite my prickly exterior, I am a gentle and caring creature, never intending to cause harm to humans, who often intimidate me. I also snort and grunt in a way that's reminiscent of hogs and pigs.

Learn more about how you can take care of your little friend.

Click here to download the Hedgehog care guide.