Whether you know this animal from nature or even video games, hedgehogs are seen as one of the most popular exotic pets in the world. There is something charming about these spiny features that people can't help but keep them as beloved pets. Perhaps you're thinking about picking up one for yourself, too. With this information in mind, here are 4 interesting facts about hedgehogs for pet owners to know.
For those that would like to keep hedgehogs as pets, understand that not all areas allow this. Many states have unique guidelines associated with exotic pets. According to companies along the lines of Assisi Animal Health, residents of Maine, Georgia, Pennsylvania and New York City are just a few that can't legally keep hedgehogs. For those that may be unfamiliar with guidelines in their states, study up before heading to your local pet store.
One of the most striking characteristics of hedgehogs are the quills on their backs. Not only does a single animal have approximately 5,000 individual spines, but these can be used for protection. If this animal feels threatened or intimidated, they curl up into a ball, the quills in question shooting up afterward. This provides the aforementioned protection that allows hedgehogs to stay safe in the wild.
The main reason why hedgehogs have the name they have is the fact that they are naturally drawn to garden hedges. Not only do these serve as fine habitats for them, but these areas are where they find their food. In these hedges, they can find worms, centipedes, and other such smaller creatures that they are known to consume. Those that enjoy gardening may find a few of these spiny creatures making themselves at home in their hedges.
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.
For those that would like to keep hedgehogs as pets, understand that not all areas allow this. Many states have unique guidelines associated with exotic pets. According to companies along the lines of Assisi Animal Health, residents of Maine, Georgia, Pennsylvania and New York City are just a few that can't legally keep hedgehogs. For those that may be unfamiliar with guidelines in their states, study up before heading to your local pet store.
One of the most striking characteristics of hedgehogs are the quills on their backs. Not only does a single animal have approximately 5,000 individual spines, but these can be used for protection. If this animal feels threatened or intimidated, they curl up into a ball, the quills in question shooting up afterward. This provides the aforementioned protection that allows hedgehogs to stay safe in the wild.
The main reason why hedgehogs have the name they have is the fact that they are naturally drawn to garden hedges. Not only do these serve as fine habitats for them, but these areas are where they find their food. In these hedges, they can find worms, centipedes, and other such smaller creatures that they are known to consume. Those that enjoy gardening may find a few of these spiny creatures making themselves at home in their hedges.
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.
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