Why does hedgehogs have spines?

Hedgehogs have spines for defense. They are a crucial part of their survival strategy. Here's why:

* Protection from Predators: When threatened, hedgehogs curl into a tight ball, presenting a ring of sharp spines to any potential predator. This makes them difficult to swallow and can deter attackers.

* Warning Signal: The spines are a visible warning sign to predators, letting them know that the hedgehog is not an easy target.

* Not for Attack: While the spines can deter predators, they are not used for offensive purposes. Hedgehogs don't actively attack with their spines.

Interesting Fact: Hedgehog spines are actually modified hairs, not bones. They are hollow and filled with keratin, the same protein that makes up human hair and nails.