Description
The hedgehog is a small, nocturnal insectivore that lives in gardens, parks, meadows, and forests. It's covered in about 6,000 spines that serve as protection when threatened. Hedgehogs hibernate.
Behavior
Hedgehogs are solitary and nocturnal. They forage noisily for food. They roll into a ball when they feel threatened. They carry ticks and fleas on their skin.
What to do
Check yourself for ticks after contact with a hedgehog. Wear gloves if you need to move a hedgehog away from a dangerous spot. Never place it on its back.
Pro tip
Check compost heaps and leaf piles before turning them over — hedgehogs like to hibernate in them. Use a flat spade and look carefully.
Interesting fact
Hedgehogs are immune to adder venom and can eat snakes. They're also resistant to certain other toxins that are lethal to other mammals.