Hedgehogs live in many kinds of climates and terrains, from the deserts of Africa to snowy Scandinavia. Hedgehog is quite adaptable to life where he finds Himself. He sleeps during the day in his nest hidden by hedges or rocks. Later at night, Hedgehog trots along the same pathways looking for food. Prowling around in gardens, Hedgehog eats Beetles, Caterpillars, Slugs, and Mice. This hardy little Mammal has a direct link back to the Mammals of the Cretaceous Era. Hedgehog's good memory and agility has allowed Him to adapt to modern life.
Noted for his prickly spines, Hedgehog looks like a pincushion. His spiky armor protects Him even when Hedgehog decides to eat a poisonous Snake. Not even a bee sting has any effect on Him. Moreover, few animals can pry open a rolled up Hedgehog.
Hedgehog is a peculiar animal. When He pokes around the dirt for food, Hedgehog snorts, coughs, and wheezes. Furthermore, He is a noisy eater. When angry, Hedgehog screams. Although He can run fast, Hedgehog chooses to go about his affairs slowly and deliberately.
As odd as Hedgehog is, ancient Greeks honored him on their vases as a representative of Artemis, the Goddess of the Hunt. Romans regarded Hedgehog a weather prophet. Ancient Sumerians considered Him to be a representative of Great Mother Ishtar. In areas of China, people thought of Hedgehog as sacred and treated Him with respect. Today, modern gardeners appreciate Hedgehog, and depend on Him to keep their gardens free of pests. Other people delight in leaving food for Hedgehog in return to watch his playful antics.
Hedgehogs teach the value of friendship with those who are different from you. Some people have found Hedgehog to be a delightful pet. All Hedgehog asks for in return is that people care about Him. For example, do not use poisons for pest control in your garden. Check leaf piles before burning them, just in case Hedgehog is sleeping in one. Become friends with this peculiar animal, and you will enjoy each other for a lifetime.
Hedgehog’s Teachings Include:
“The hedgehog teaches us to explore and follow our natural curiosity, but it also shows us how to be more protective of ourselves as well. Even though others may not understand our peculiar habits, we have a wonderful way of stimulating the curiosity within their natures.” Copyright: “Animal-Wise”, Ted Andrews.
“The hedgehog is very much admired by the Gypsy people. He is considered clever and brave, loyal to his family and versatile in gaining a living just like the Gypsy himself.” Copyright: “Gypsy Magic” Patrinella Cooper.
“The fox knows many things, but the hedgehog knows one big thing.” (I.e. The fox is cunning, but it is the hedgehog with its spines that always walks away unscathed.) – Archilochus, ancient Greek poet.
Hedgehog’s Advice Includes:
“Perhaps you need to keep away from people who continually attack you with words of criticism. Do not accept verbal or physical abuse. Learn how to respond in a threatening situation.” Copyright: Lily Therese
“The Hedgehog's confidence in its protective coating may tempt it into mischief making, without fear of retribution.” Copyright: “Beasts of Albion”, Miranda Gray.
Conservation Note: Hedgehog is protected in Europe and Africa.
Hedgehog Photo courtesy of FreeFoto.com. 
Va. Carper