Hedgehogs, with their distinctive spiky coats and curious nature, have captivated the hearts of people around the globe. These small, nocturnal mammals hold a treasure trove of interesting characteristics and behaviors. Let's delve into ten fun facts about these adorable creatures that you might not know. 1. Built-in Armour: Hedgehogs are famous for their spiky exterior, which is actually made of keratin - the same material human nails are made of. These spines are not fixed permanently but are muscles that can raise when the animal feels threatened, rolling into a tight ball as a defense mechanism against predators. 2 Self-Anointing Habit: One of the most peculiar behaviors of hedgehogs is self-anointing or anting. When they encounter new or strong smells, they create a frothy saliva which they spread over their spines. Scientists believe this could be a way to camouflage their scent from predators or to deter parasites. 3. Solitary Creatures: Unlike many small mammals that live in groups, hedgehogs are solitary animals. They come together only to mate and tend to avoid social interactions with other hedgehogs, marking their territory and foraging alone. 4. Garden Helpers: Gardeners love hedgehogs because they eat common garden pests such as snails, slugs, and various insects. Having a hedgehog in your garden is a natural way to keep the pest population under control. 5. Nocturnal Lifestyle: Hedgehogs are primarily nocturnal, spending most of the day sleeping and becoming active at night. During the night, they can travel up to 2 miles to forage for food. 6. Variety of Species: There are 17 known species of hedgehogs found across Europe, Asia, Africa, and New Zealand. Each species has adapted to its specific habitat, from desert to forest environments. 7. Longevity: In the wild, hedgehogs live on average 2-5 years, but in captivity, with proper care, they can live up to 10 years. Predation, habitat loss, and road accidents are significant threats to their lifespan in the wild. 8. Hibernators: In colder climates, hedgehogs hibernate to conserve energy. During hibernation, their body temperature can drop to just above the ambient temperature, and their metabolic rate slows significantly. 9. Quirky Diet: Besides insects, hedgehogs enjoy a varied diet including fruits, mushrooms, and even small vertebrates. However, milk is harmful to them as they are lactose intolerant. 10. Protected in Some Countries: Due to declining numbers caused by habitat loss and other threats, hedgehogs are legally protected in some countries. It is illegal to capture, harm, or kill them, emphasizing the need to preserve these fascinating creatures and their habitats. Hedgehogs continue to intrigue and delight us with their unique habits and characteristics. As we learn more about these spiky little creatures, it's clear they play a significant role in our ecosystems and deserve our protection and admiration. Whether in the wild or as a pet, hedgehogs remind us of the wonders of the natural world and the importance of conservation efforts.