hedgehog

/ˌhɛdʒˈhɔg/

/ˈhɛdʒhɒg/

Other forms: hedgehogs

The hedgehog is a small nocturnal mammal that looks like a walking pincushion due to the collection of spiky quills that cover its furry body. It uses its sharp spines for defense by curling into a tight ball when threatened.

Despite its prickly exterior, the hedgehog is known for its charming behavior and gentle nature. Its diet mainly consists of insects, making it helpful for pest control in gardens. Native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, the hedgehog digs burrows for shelter and has a keen sense of smell to find food. It also plays significant roles in various cultural stories and folklore, often symbolizing protection and strength. Hedgehogs have even become popular pets due to their unique and endearing qualities.

Definitions of hedgehog

1. noun

   a small, nocturnal, insect-eating mammal covered with hair and protective spines, native to Eurasia and Africa
   synonyms: Erinaceus europaeus, Erinaceus europeaeus

   type of:

   insectivore

   small insect-eating mainly nocturnal terrestrial or fossorial mammals
2. noun

   any of various, relatively large, hairy, plant-eating mammals of the rodent order, either ground-dwelling or tree-dwelling, having sharp spines
   synonyms: porcupine

   types:

   Old World porcupine

   terrestrial porcupine

   New World porcupine

   arboreal porcupine

   brush-tail porcupine, brush-tailed porcupine

   porcupine with a tuft of large beaded bristles on the tail

   Trichys lipura, long-tailed porcupine

   porcupine of Borneo and Sumatra having short spines and a long tail

   Canada porcupine, Erethizon dorsatum

   porcupine of northeastern North America with barbed spines concealed in the coarse fur; often gnaws buildings for salt and grease

   type of:

   gnawer, rodent

   relatively small placental mammals having a single pair of constantly growing incisor teeth specialized for gnawing