HedgehogHedgehogs are the only British mammal with spines. When threatened they will roll into a tight ball, with the spines providing sharp protection from predators. Young hedgehogs are born with soft spines under the skin to protect mum, with a second set of spines emerging within days. One peculiarity to all hedgehogs is the way they cover their spines in foamy saliva, the reason why they do this remains a mystery although it has been suggested it might be a sexual attractant, or be used to reduce parasites, or as additional protection. Hedgehogs aren't fussy when it comes to food: worms, slugs, frogs and even bird eggs can be taken during a two kilometre nightly forage, a resistance to adder venom can also put this snake on the menu. Did you know?The name for a baby hedgehog is a hoglet.
City hogs From SpringwatchHedgehogs need at least 12 gardens to themselves before they deign to move in.
Hedgehog success From The Animal's Guide to BritainHedgehogs have guaranteed survival by adapting to new habitats.
A hedgehog's history of Britain From The Animal's Guide to BritainConflict and love through the ages, between humans and hedgehogs.
Make a hog heaven! From The Animal's Guide to BritainHedgehog resilience has finally met its match with the taste for tidy gardens.