1. Puffing and Hissing:
When feeling threatened or defensive, hedgehogs will puff up their spines, making them appear larger and more intimidating. They may also hiss or make a blowing sound as a warning.
2. Grunting and Snorting:
Hedgehogs use these sounds to express various emotions and signals. Soft grunts or snuffling sounds are often associated with contentment or satisfaction, while louder grunts can indicate excitement or displeasure.
3. Chirping and Clicking:
These high-pitched sounds resemble bird chirps or clicking noises and are typically made during courtship or mating. Female hedgehogs may also chirp to attract males.
4. Squeaking:
High-pitched squeaks or squeals can express pain, discomfort, or distress. Hedgehogs might squeak if they feel threatened or handled improperly.
5. Teeth Chatter:
Hedgehogs may rapidly chatter their teeth as a sign of agitation or frustration. It is a warning that they are not pleased and may resort to more defensive behavior if the situation persists.
6. Foot Stamping:
Some hedgehogs use their feet to rapidly tap or stamp on the ground. This is a territorial behavior, with the hedgehog marking their territory by spreading scent from the glands in their feet.
7. Anointing:
During anointing, hedgehogs will produce saliva mixed with scent from glands near their ears and rub it on their spines, fur, and the surrounding environment. This behavior is thought to be a form of communication, as the scent can convey information about the individual hedgehog.
8. Body Posture:
Hedgehogs also convey messages through body language. Rolling into a ball exposes their sharp spines and is a defensive posture. Standing with their spikes erect signals alertness or a readiness to defend themselves. A relaxed posture with flattened spines usually indicates comfort and contentment.
By understanding the various ways hedgehogs communicate, owners and caregivers can better interpret their behavior and respond appropriately to their needs and cues.