1. Curling into a ball: This is their most famous defense. When threatened, they curl into a tight ball, presenting a spiky, impenetrable shell to the predator. The spines are sharp and can cause pain or even injury.
2. Spines: The spines themselves are a powerful deterrent. They are made of keratin, the same material as human hair and nails. The spines are sharp, barbed, and loosely attached, meaning they easily detach if a predator tries to grab them. This can cause pain and discourage the predator from trying again.
3. Odor: Hedgehogs also have a strong musky odor that can be unpleasant to predators. This adds to their defense.
4. Nocturnal Habits: Hedgehogs are primarily nocturnal, which means they are active at night. This helps them avoid daytime predators like birds of prey.
5. Burrows: Hedgehogs often dig burrows for shelter, which provide a safe place to escape predators.
6. Camouflage: Their spines can provide some camouflage, especially when they are curled into a ball. Their brown and gray coloration helps them blend in with their surroundings.
Important note: While hedgehogs are well-equipped to defend themselves, they are still vulnerable to predators. Cats, foxes, badgers, owls, and weasels are among the animals that prey on hedgehogs.