How Do Hedgehogs Protect Themselves?

Hedgehog Defense Mechanisms: How They Protect Themselves

Hedgehogs have several defense mechanisms to protect themselves from predators. Their primary defense is their quills, which are sharp hollow hairs made stiff with keratin. When threatened, a hedgehog will roll into a tight ball, covering its vulnerable head and limbs with its quills. This makes it challenging for predators to attack them. Hedgehogs also exhibit a behavior called 'self-anointing,' where they spread foamy saliva on their quills, possibly to deter predators with a strong taste or smell. Additionally, hedgehogs can make a hissing sound, puff themselves up, or even click their teeth to warn off predators. These defense mechanisms combined make hedgehogs a formidable prey to tackle.

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