* Defense: The most obvious reason is for protection. Those sharp spikes are a formidable deterrent against predators like foxes, badgers, and even birds of prey. When threatened, hedgehogs curl into a tight ball, presenting a prickly, unappetizing meal.
* Camouflage: While not as prominent as their spikes, a hedgehog's body color and patterns can help them blend into their surroundings. This camouflage further helps them avoid detection by predators.
* Carrying food: Hedgehogs sometimes use their spines to transport food like leaves and insects back to their burrows. They can stick these items between their quills.
It's important to note that hedgehog spikes are not actually like porcupine quills, which can detach and embed in attackers. Hedgehog spikes are firmly attached to their bodies.