Wild Wednesday - European Hedgehog
Hedgehogs will hoover up insects roaming in vegetable beds and enjoy big, crunchy beetles and earthworms, so they are known as a gardener's best friend!
They are usually seen from April to November, as they hibernate through winter in a nest of leaves or logs called a 'hibernaculum'.
Round, brown and famously covered in spines, the hedgehog is the UK’s most familiar wild animal. They can be spotted in parks and gardens where bushes provide a good spot to hide. They also like long grass, full of insects to eat once the sun has set - they are most active at night.
Hedgehogs are known for their ability to roll themselves into a ball of spines when threatened. These spines are actually modified hairs and the average hedgehog has about 7000 of them, which can be raised using powerful muscles along their back.
Hedgehog populations are sadly in decline across Europe. They have been placed on the red list of vulnerable species in the UK where studies suggest populations have fallen by around a third since the year 2000. The primary reason behind the hedgehog's decline is habitat loss. Urbanisation and intensive farming have led to fewer hedgerows - hedgehog's natural homes. Pesticides play a role too, reducing their food supply.
In human years, a five year old hedgehog is about 76 - this is called the 'founder's effect' and can be seen in other animals as well. So, if a hedgehog lives 5-7 years it has lived a full life. However, the oldest hedgehog scientifically documented was 16 years old, two other individuals lived for 13 and 11 years respectively.
A large proportion of the hedgehogs on Alderney, Guernsey are blonde!
Read more here: Hedgehog - Wikipedia