In Photos: Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs are renowned for their spiky, modified guard hairs. Be careful if you ever have to pick them up!

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Ball

Hedgehogs have the ability to roll into a ball in order to protect their soft underbelly with their sharp spines. Like this, they are able to stave off most predators who would rather not risk injury from their modified guard hairs.
Apples

It was thought that hedgehogs used their spines to collect apples but this has been largely dispelled. We now know that their spines are primarily for their protection, whilst also serving to cushion any falls.
Little John

Little John the rescued hedgehog is featured in the second series of David Attenborough's Natural Curiosities. Having been too underweight to survive the winter hibernation, Little John was rescued and fed over the winter before his release in the spring.
Little John and Duncan

Little John was taken in by hedgehog-enthusiast Duncan, who runs a website The Lilac Grove where you can see photos and videos of his garden visitors!
Roads

Roads are the major threat to hedgehog populations, and while roads continue to cross through their territories deaths will continue to rise. Some projects to counter this include tunnels under major roads.
American Hedgehog

Hedgehogs can even be found on the other side of the Atlantic. Our European hedgehog's American cousins are slightly lighter in colour.