Hedgehog

Hedgehogs are small mammals belonging to the subfamily Erinaceinae, distinguished by the spines covering their backs. These spines are specialized hairs used for defense against predators; when threatened, hedgehogs curl into a spiny ball. They are found in parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa, inhabiting areas like forests, grasslands, and gardens. Hedgehogs are opportunistic omnivores, primarily feeding on insects, worms, snails, small vertebrates, fruits, and plants. They are typically solitary and nocturnal.