The vast majority of people know this animal from a certain popular video game series, but others know it as a unique pet choice. Yes, there are many people that keep hedgehogs as pets, and it's easy to see why. These animals are known for their adorable demeanors and overall charm, but there are many interesting details that the average person isn't privy to. With this in mind, here are 4 things that every pet owner must know about hedgehogs.
One of the most interesting facts about hedgehogs - and companies like Assisi Animal Health will stress this as well - is that they aren't legal in all areas of the world. New York City, Pennsylvania and Hawaii are just a few areas where these spiny creatures can't be kept as pets. What this means is that you should inquire about your region's rules regarding hedgehogs. Needless to say, this will save you time and effort in the long term.
One of the identifying factors of hedgehogs are, of course, the quills on their body. While they aren't terribly painful to the touch, they still serve as a defense mechanism for these animals to defend themselves. If a hedgehog feels threatened in a particular situation, they can curl up, their quills protruding upward. This allows them to defend themselves, which means that predators will be less likely to get to them.
The reason why these animals are called "hedgehogs" is the fact that they are mostly found in garden hedges. For hedgehogs, these areas are ideal for finding shelter and food alike. Speaking of food, hedgehogs are known for consuming worms, centipedes, and other smaller creatures. In any event, if you have hedges on your lawn that you maintain, take a closer look inside of them. There's a possibility that a hedgehog or two made them their habitat.
Many people don't know that the hedgehog is a nocturnal animal, too. They will sleep all day, only being active at night. This isn't an uncommon ritual, as other animals are active during the evening while other creatures sleep. Raccoons, bats, and owls are some of the most prominent examples of nocturnal creatures. Hedgehogs have acute smelling and hearing, but poor eyesight, so this lifestyle is perfect for them.
One of the most interesting facts about hedgehogs - and companies like Assisi Animal Health will stress this as well - is that they aren't legal in all areas of the world. New York City, Pennsylvania and Hawaii are just a few areas where these spiny creatures can't be kept as pets. What this means is that you should inquire about your region's rules regarding hedgehogs. Needless to say, this will save you time and effort in the long term.
One of the identifying factors of hedgehogs are, of course, the quills on their body. While they aren't terribly painful to the touch, they still serve as a defense mechanism for these animals to defend themselves. If a hedgehog feels threatened in a particular situation, they can curl up, their quills protruding upward. This allows them to defend themselves, which means that predators will be less likely to get to them.
The reason why these animals are called "hedgehogs" is the fact that they are mostly found in garden hedges. For hedgehogs, these areas are ideal for finding shelter and food alike. Speaking of food, hedgehogs are known for consuming worms, centipedes, and other smaller creatures. In any event, if you have hedges on your lawn that you maintain, take a closer look inside of them. There's a possibility that a hedgehog or two made them their habitat.
Many people don't know that the hedgehog is a nocturnal animal, too. They will sleep all day, only being active at night. This isn't an uncommon ritual, as other animals are active during the evening while other creatures sleep. Raccoons, bats, and owls are some of the most prominent examples of nocturnal creatures. Hedgehogs have acute smelling and hearing, but poor eyesight, so this lifestyle is perfect for them.
