Hedgehog
Behavior: Understanding Your Spiky Friend
Hedgehogs
are fascinating creatures with unique behaviors that might seem
puzzling at first. Understanding these behaviors can help you build a
stronger bond with your hedgehog and ensure they’re happy and healthy.
Below, we’ll explore some of the most common hedgehog behaviors and
what they mean.
1.
Anointing (Self-Anointing)
What
It Is:
Anointing is one of the most distinctive behaviors hedgehogs display.
When a hedgehog encounters a new or strong scent, they may start to
lick or chew on the object, then create a frothy saliva and spread it
over their quills.
Why
They Do It:
While it’s still somewhat of a mystery, this behavior is believed to be
a way for hedgehogs to camouflage themselves with their environment or
to carry the scent of something they find interesting. It’s completely
normal, though it may look a bit odd!
How
to Respond:
There’s no need to worry when your hedgehog anoints. Just ensure that
whatever they are anointing with is safe and non-toxic. Sit back and
enjoy the quirky show!
2.
Hissing and Popping
What
It Is:
When startled, scared, or feeling threatened, a hedgehog may hiss or
make popping sounds. This is their way of telling potential predators
or disturbances to back off. They may also curl into a tight ball,
using their quills as a defense mechanism.
Why
They Do It:
Hissing and popping are natural defense behaviors. Hedgehogs are prey
animals in the wild, so these sounds are meant to ward off threats.
How
to Respond:
If your hedgehog is hissing or popping, it’s important to give them
space and time to feel safe. Avoid handling them until they have calmed
down. Building trust with gentle handling and patience will help reduce
these behaviors over time.
3.
Burrowing
What
It Is:
Hedgehogs love to burrow! Whether it’s under blankets, in a pile of
bedding, or even inside your hoodie, they have a natural instinct to
dig and nest.
Why
They Do It:
Burrowing provides hedgehogs with a sense of security and comfort. In
the wild, they would burrow to create a safe sleeping area.
How
to Respond:
Provide plenty of soft bedding and burrowing spots in their enclosure.
Encouraging this behavior by creating cozy hideouts can make your
hedgehog feel more at home.
4.
Wheeling
What
It Is:
Hedgehogs are nocturnal and love to run on a wheel at night. This is a
great way for them to get exercise and burn off energy.
Why
They Do It:
In the wild, hedgehogs travel long distances searching for food.
Running on a wheel mimics this natural behavior.
How
to Respond:
Make sure your hedgehog has access to a safe, solid-surface wheel
that’s large enough to prevent back injuries. Clean the wheel
regularly, as it can get dirty quickly.
5.
Scent Marking
What
It Is:
Hedgehogs may rub their bodies or faces on objects to mark their
territory with their scent.
Why
They Do It:
This behavior is common in many animals and is a way for hedgehogs to
feel more secure in their environment.
How
to Respond:
Allow your hedgehog to explore and mark their space. It’s part of how
they make their environment feel like home.
Understanding
and Bonding
The
more you observe and understand your hedgehog’s behavior, the better
you can respond to their needs and preferences. Remember, every
hedgehog is unique, and building a bond with your spiky friend takes
time and patience. By recognizing these common behaviors, you can
ensure that your hedgehog feels safe, secure, and loved in your care.
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