The Hedgehog is one of our most endearing and distinctive mammals, measuring around 10inches long and covered in spines with a soft face, pointed snout and twinkling eyes. The best time to see one is just before nightfall as they tend to sleep during the day. Their snuffles and leaf rustling inform us that their presence is nearby.
I can remember the excitement I felt when I first saw one in my Auntie’s garden when I was about 7 or 8 years old. It was dusk and he was snuffling around looking for food. They still fill me with joy and make me smile when I see one, although sadly this is becoming less frequent now. It’s their purposeful, no-nonsense attitude that beguils me.
Hedgehog Folklore and Spiritual Meaning
British folklore has had a varied relationship with the hedgehog, or “hedgepig” as they are sometimes known in some dialects. Historically, they were associated with witchcraft and agricultural theft, thankfully that has changed and they are now welcomed and highly regarded by gardeners as well as symbolising self-protection, resourcefulness, rebirth and resilience. Ancient Eyptians viewed them as symbols of rebirth, while Chinese cultures considered them protectors of their homes and bringers of prosperity.
Hedgehog Heritage and Fascinating Facts
True, ‘modern’ hedgehogs emerged approximately 15 million years ago, and have been roaming Britain for around 10,000 years.
They hibernate during the winter, from October to March or April, but some sleep intermittently until December or later. Hedgehogs seen in broad daylight, particularly in bright sunshine, or not moving much should be reported to a rescue centre, such as a local wildlife rescue, or contact The British Hedgehog Preservation Society (britishhedgehog.org.uk)
The hedgehog’s eyesight isn’t that great, but it has acute senses of smell and hearing. Their main line of defence is to curl up into a ball when they are threatened so that every part of their body is protected by erect spines.
Favourite dietary requirements include slugs and snails (hence why they are gardeners’ best friends), insects and worms. Sometimes mice, rats, frogs, lizards and snakes may sometimes be consumed.
Peak breeding season occurs between May and July with litters of around 3-7 hoglets born deaf, blind and sparsely covered in flexible spines. Growth is rapid and they are cared solely by their mother. The young reach sexual maturity the following year.
Fun Fact: A group of hedgehogs is called a Prickle
Famous hedgehogs: Beatrix Potter’s Mrs Tiggywinkle and the hedgehog croquet balls used by Lewis Carroll’s Queen of Hearts in Alice in Wonderland.
How can we help protect them?
Having a hedgehog visit our gardens is sadly becoming more and more infrequent primarily caused by environmental changes caused by humans. The removal of hedgerows and expanding large fields, plus sold fencing and paved driveways in urban areas have isolated hedgehog populations.
But all is not lost, there are things we can do to help our prickly friends:
- Create a Hedgehog Highway by leaving small gaps at the bottom of fences, so they can roam easily.
- Leave out food and water such as high quality pet food. Avoid milk and dairy as hedgehogs are lactose intolerant.
- Make natural shelters; leave log piles and leaf litter undisturbed.
- Avoid chemicals such as pesticides and slug pellets.
I’m sure you will agree with me that these charismatic, beguiling creatures deserve all the help they can get.
Info Sources: “Wild Animals of The British Isles” by Maurice Burton
The British Hedgehog Preservation Society britishhedgehog.org.uk
Hornbeam Wood Hedgehog Sanctuary hornbeamwood.org.uk
Photos: Unsplash.com
Blog banner artwork: original drawing by Wendy Jennings, The Coddiwomple Lady