Hobbies And Interests
Appearance
Hedgehogs are small mammals that are easy to spot because of their unique appearance. Usually grey and brown in color, the back and sides of a hedgehog are coated with spines. When threatened, the hedgehog will roll into a ball and use the spines as a defense. The hedgehog is only 5 to 12 inches long, and typically will not weigh more than 35 oz. During winter hibernation, the hedgehog loses weight rapidly. Males are usually a little larger than the female hedgehog.
Life Cycle
Hedgehogs have a long breeding season, which can last into May. A total of two litters, consisting of four to seven babies, can be born each year. After only seven weeks, the young hedgehogs are able to live on their own. Hedgehogs hibernate during the winter season, usually under tree roots or in other dry spots, such as abandoned rabbit burrows.
Habitat
Hedgehogs can be found in low pastoral areas. They tend to avoid high altitudes. Hedgehogs are not territorial and will share their habitat with other hedgehogs. The mammals usually have more than one daytime nest, which can be occupied by other hedgehogs when not in use.
Diet
Hedgehogs are insectivorous, which means they eat mainly slugs, snails and large insects. The hedgehog is not particular about its diet, and will eat most animal substances and a few plants. The hedgehog hunts using its nose, discovering its prey by its scent. In fact, the hedgehog received its name because of the way the animal roots in shrubs and dirt as it forages for food, emitting short grunts.