Little spiny knight: Everything you need to know about hedgehogs
Who is the hedgehog? A portrait of a prickly mammal
The hedgehog belongs to the Erinaceidae family, a group of mammals found in temperate and tropical regions around the world. In Europe, the western hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is the most common. Its relative, the eastern hedgehog (Erinaceus roumanicus), lives mainly in Eastern Europe and Asia.
Appearance and physique
An adult hedgehog weighs between 500 and 1500 grams and is up to 30 centimetres long. The most striking part of its body is of course its spines - an adult hedgehog has between 5000 and 7000 spines! These are about 2 to 3 centimetres long and are made of keratin, the same material as our nails or hair. In case of danger, the hedgehog rolls up into a spiky ball - an effective protection against many enemies.
But beneath the spines lies a soft belly with light-colored fur. The hedgehog has short legs, small round ears and a pointed snout that helps it sniff out food. Its small black eyes are particularly characteristic and give it a cute appearance.
Where does the hedgehog live? Habitat and distribution
The hedgehog is a true master of adaptation. Originally it was found in forests, hedgerows and meadows at home. Over time, however, it has also adapted to man-made habitats. Today, hedgehogs are often found in gardens, parks and even urban areas. There they benefit from the many hiding places and good food supply.
The garden as a paradise for hedgehogs
A near-natural garden with hedges, piles of leaves and unmown meadows provides the perfect habitat for hedgehogs. Here they not only find shelter, but also sufficient food. Stone walls, wood piles and compost heaps are also popular with hedgehogs.
What does the hedgehog eat? The diet of an omnivore
Hedgehogs are insectivores, but they are also real opportunists. Their diet includes everything they can find in nature. This includes:
- Insects such as beetles, larvae and caterpillars
- Earthworms, which are an important source of protein
- snails, which are a delicacy, especially in spring
- Occasionally also carrion, mushrooms or berries
A widespread misconception is that hedgehogs drink milk. In fact, they do not tolerate lactose and milk can lead to severe digestive problems. If you want to feed hedgehogs, you should offer special hedgehog food or cat food (wet or dry) instead.
How do hedgehogs live? Behavior and lifestyle
Hedgehogs are mainly nocturnal. During the day, they sleep in sheltered hiding places such as piles of leaves, dense hedges or burrows. After dark, they go in search of food - often covering distances of up to 3 kilometers! Their clumsy steps and typical smacking sound are unmistakable.
Hibernation - a miracle of survival
One of the hedgehog's most amazing characteristics is its hibernation. From October or November, when temperatures drop and food becomes scarce, the hedgehog retreats to its winter quarters. There it lowers its body temperature to a few degrees above freezing and its heartbeat is reduced from around 180 to just 20 beats per minute.
During hibernation, the hedgehog draws on the fat reserves it has eaten during the summer and fall. It is vital that it weighs at least 600 grams before winter - otherwise it could starve to death.
The hedgehog and its enemies
Despite its spines, the hedgehog is not completely safe from enemies. Above all owls, foxes and badgers are among its natural predators. However, humans pose the greatest threat to hedgehogs. Road traffic, pesticides and the loss of habitats are causing serious problems for the little spiny knight.
Danger in road traffic
Hedgehogs are often on the roads at dusk and at night. Many of them die in road accidents every year. A simple way to protect hedgehogs is to put up signs near stretches of road where hedgehogs are frequently seen.
Gardens without shelter
Overly tidy gardens without hedges, foliage or hiding places offer hedgehogs no protection. The use of chemicals in agriculture and in private gardens also reduces the availability of food.
How can you help hedgehogs?
If you want to help hedgehogs in your garden, there are a few simple measures you can take:
- Set up hedgehog houses: A home-built or purchased hedgehog house provides a safe haven.
- Leave piles of leaves and brushwood: They serve as ideal sleeping and hibernation quarters.
- Do not use pesticides: This is how you protect the hedgehog's food chain.
- Offer water: Especially in hot summer months, a shallow water bowl helps hedgehogs to meet their fluid requirements.
- Eliminate sources of danger: Make sure there are no nets or pits lying around the garden that hedgehogs could get caught in.
Curious facts about hedgehogs
- Ancient companions: Hedgehogs have existed for around 60 million years - so they have already outlived the dinosaurs!
- Record holder: A hedgehog can eat up to 100 insects in one night.
- Self-protection: Some hedgehogs rub themselves with strong-smelling plants - the reason for this behavior is still not entirely clear.
- Hearing pro: Hedgehogs have excellent hearing and can perceive frequencies that are inaudible to us humans.
Conclusion: Prickly, but lovable
Hedgehogs are an important part of our ecosystem and a symbol of biodiversity in our gardens. With a little consideration and support, we can help them survive in a world dominated by humans. Maybe you're lucky enough to spot a hedgehog in your garden - it's worth taking a closer look!
Now it's your turn: Have you ever seen a hedgehog in your garden? What experiences have you had with these little spiny creatures? Share your opinion and tips in the comments! 🦔