So Squee! Friday presents: The Hedgehog

 

These spiny little cuties are native to parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. They are also found in New Zealand and Scotland via introduction to the wild. Most of them are nocturnal, but you will find many of the species awake during the day as well.

Surprisingly enough, hedgehogs are actually quite vocal. Depending on the type (there are seventeen species of hedgehog!) they can squeak, grunt, and snuffle.

 

Have you ever seen a frightened or startled hedgehog raise its quills or disappear into a spiny ball? A hedgehog’s back is made up of two large muscles, which control the positioning of the quills. They can use these muscles to fully cover themselves with spines and pulling exposed parts of their body, like their heads and feet, inside.

Some species of hedgehog, typically the African pygmy, make very cute pets! They can live up to ten years if properly cared for, but they don’t like too many other pets and prefer to live alone. Even though the African pygmy is only about six to nine inches long, it requires a very large cage because it is so active. They’re not stinky like some unique pets, and are described by pet owners as quiet, clean, and sweet-tempered.