When it comes to exotic pets, it's safe to say that hedgehogs are among the most common. For many people, this is the ideal pet choice. For others, the appeal may be lost. After all, hedgehogs are not exactly the most typical pet, especially when compared to cats, dogs, and goldfish. For future pet owners that may be particularly intrigued by hedgehogs, the following 4 tidbits are worth keeping in mind.
One of the most interesting facts about hedgehogs - and companies like Assisi Animal Health will stress this as well - is that they aren't legal in all areas of the world. New York City, Pennsylvania and Hawaii are just a few areas where these spiny creatures can't be kept as pets. What this means is that you should inquire about your region's rules regarding hedgehogs. Needless to say, this will save you time and effort in the long term.
Hedgehogs are most commonly identified by their quills, which are nothing short of recognizable. Have you ever seen one of these animals curl up into a ball, with the quills sticking up? The reason for this is protection. If they feel intimidated or threatened, they utilize this defense mechanism to protect themselves. With about 5,000 individual spines to account for, it's easy to see that hedgehogs are adept at defending themselves if need be.
The main reason why hedgehogs have the name they have is the fact that they are naturally drawn to garden hedges. Not only do these serve as fine habitats for them, but these areas are where they find their food. In these hedges, they can find worms, centipedes, and other such smaller creatures that they are known to consume. Those that enjoy gardening may find a few of these spiny creatures making themselves at home in their hedges.
Many people don't know that the hedgehog is a nocturnal animal, too. They will sleep all day, only being active at night. This isn't an uncommon ritual, as other animals are active during the evening while other creatures sleep. Raccoons, bats, and owls are some of the most prominent examples of nocturnal creatures. Hedgehogs have acute smelling and hearing, but poor eyesight, so this lifestyle is perfect for them.
One of the most interesting facts about hedgehogs - and companies like Assisi Animal Health will stress this as well - is that they aren't legal in all areas of the world. New York City, Pennsylvania and Hawaii are just a few areas where these spiny creatures can't be kept as pets. What this means is that you should inquire about your region's rules regarding hedgehogs. Needless to say, this will save you time and effort in the long term.
Hedgehogs are most commonly identified by their quills, which are nothing short of recognizable. Have you ever seen one of these animals curl up into a ball, with the quills sticking up? The reason for this is protection. If they feel intimidated or threatened, they utilize this defense mechanism to protect themselves. With about 5,000 individual spines to account for, it's easy to see that hedgehogs are adept at defending themselves if need be.
The main reason why hedgehogs have the name they have is the fact that they are naturally drawn to garden hedges. Not only do these serve as fine habitats for them, but these areas are where they find their food. In these hedges, they can find worms, centipedes, and other such smaller creatures that they are known to consume. Those that enjoy gardening may find a few of these spiny creatures making themselves at home in their hedges.
Many people don't know that the hedgehog is a nocturnal animal, too. They will sleep all day, only being active at night. This isn't an uncommon ritual, as other animals are active during the evening while other creatures sleep. Raccoons, bats, and owls are some of the most prominent examples of nocturnal creatures. Hedgehogs have acute smelling and hearing, but poor eyesight, so this lifestyle is perfect for them.
No comments:
Post a Comment