|
Hedgehog
Erinaceus europaeus
This species is resident on the Common throughout the year. Being the only British mammal with spines, everyone can correctly identify it.
The male is known as a boar, the female, a sow. The first litter of young is born between May and June and a second litter appears between July to September. Litters contain up to seven young and these are born completely naked and helpless.
During the warmer months, this mainly nocturnal animal hides away under leaves or other other natural vegetation, usually under a hedgerow or well hidden location. In the coldest periods of the year, it will hibernate after making a snug nest in a hole. Despite its appearance, the hedgehog is an agile animal which can climb and swim.
Food. Worms, insects, frogs, mice, lizards and even snakes.
Signs. Although secretive, it is noisy as it shuffles along
in the undergrowth of local gardens or in the wild.
Rolls into a spiny ball when disturbed.
|
