The hedgehog is a small, unique mammal known primarily for its distinct covering of spines. As a nocturnal insectivore, it possesses a compact body structure well-suited for foraging in undergrowth across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Understanding what a hedgehog looks like requires examining its overall shape, its defining protective layer, and the appearance of its head and limbs.
Overall Size and Body Shape
The hedgehog’s body presents a stout, rounded silhouette, positioned low to the ground by its short legs. Adult hedgehogs typically measure between 14 to 30 centimeters (5.5 to 12 inches) in length, with a small, stumpy tail that adds another 1 to 6 centimeters. Body weight varies significantly by species, season, and sex, often ranging from approximately 500 grams (1 pound) to 1.1 kilograms (2.4 pounds) in common species. The overall appearance is compact, often described as similar to a softball when curled up.
The underside of the hedgehog, including its belly, legs, and face, is covered in a coat of coarse, sparse fur. This soft area contrasts sharply with the spiny upper body and can range in color from white to dark brown, depending on the species. This soft, vulnerable belly is what the animal seeks to protect with its unique armor.
The Defining Feature: Spines and Quills
The most recognizable feature of the hedgehog is the dense covering of spines that blankets its back and sides. An adult can possess between 5,000 and 7,000 of these spines, which are essentially modified hairs. Each spine is made from keratin, the same protein that forms human hair and fingernails, and is about 2 to 3 centimeters (1 inch) long. They are solid shafts, unlike the hollow structure of porcupine quills, and are not easily detached.
These protective structures often feature a banded pattern, typically creamy white at the base and tip with a dark brown or black band around the middle. Each individual spine is attached to a small muscle, allowing the hedgehog to independently raise or lower them. When the animal is relaxed, the spines lie flat, pointing backward; when threatened, they are erected into a formidable, crisscrossing barrier.
Face, Limbs, and Movement
The hedgehog’s face is characterized by a long, pointed, and highly mobile snout that tapers to a moist, hairless nose. This muzzle is constantly used for rooting and smelling, as the animal relies heavily on its acute senses of smell and hearing rather than its relatively poor vision. The eyes are small and dark, often appearing bright brown or black, and they protrude slightly from the face.
The ears are typically small and rounded, though some desert-dwelling species have noticeably larger ears. The limbs are short and thin, keeping the body close to the ground, but they are strong enough for running and digging. Most species feature five toes on each foot, tipped with long, curved claws. The hedgehog moves with a characteristic shuffling or waddling gait, but it can run in quick bursts when necessary. When faced with danger, a large muscle encircling the body contracts, pulling the head, limbs, and tail inward to transform the animal into a completely protected ball of sharp spines.