Hey There, Green Thumbs! Have You Noticed Strange Behavior in Your Hedgehogs Lately?
Struggling Hedgehogs Exhibiting erratic behavior, spinning and swaying aimlessly. - Hedgehogs exhibiting spin-around behavior and circumambulating locality.
By Annette Berger** invitation to comment: ≈ 2 mins
Warm summer evenings often bring out peculiar sights in our gardens - notably, hedgehogs prancing in circles. Ever witnessed such a peculiar sight? That's exactly what happened at our place a few years back: Two spiky critters traversed our terrace mid-evening, seemingly oblivious to our presence. One hedgehog spun around another in a somewhat unsteady dance, sparks of concern flickered in my husband's eyes as he wondered if our balancing impaired guest needed professional help. We decided a watchful approach was best to not disturb the animals.
Little did we know we were peeping at a romantic escapade: This dance is none other than the "hedgehog carousel"; a bizarre mating ritual. The male attempts to charm the female, who initially resists, spiked up and hisses, for hours on end. On the odd occasions, he remains engrossed in his circles that the love-struck lady takes advantage and makes a hasty exit.
Ladies, it's a tough competition out there
Male hedgehogs put on an impressive dedication to win the female's heart. These typically crepuscular and nocturnal creatures loose track of time during the mating season. We once observed two love-struck individuals sitting in the flower bed, smitten even as morning light trickled in.
However, the festivity doesn't last long: Once the deed is done, the male moves on. The female raises the offspring alone. As we speak, infant hedgehogs are sprouting all across Germany, notes the German Wildlife Foundation. Gardeners should tread lightly when there's a leaf pile or rotting wood present - a potential hedgehog nest. Disturbing the mother hedgehog might result in baby abandonment, and thus possible starvation.
A closer inspection: Is it love or trouble?
When hedgehogs act funny, it's important to investigate closely. Not every stumble can be attributed to romance. Animal protectors emphasize that garden hazards are bountiful and range from lawnmowers to hazardous substances.
Single hedgehogs seen in grass are often being cared for by their mothers, even during broad daylight. Most times, it's best to leave them be and observe. It takes about five to six weeks for hedgehogs to mature to venture off on their own. They become sexually active after their first winter and ready to partake in the "hedgehog carousel" once more.
Sources: Press release and hedgehog-friendly gardening tips from the German Wildlife Foundation, "Pro-Igel.de", YouTube post by Wildtiere OWL highlights a tragic garden mishap: Garden animals are frequently injured or killed by lawnmowers.
Keywords: Garden, Hedgehog, Love, Mating
- Engaging in a comprehensive community policy, it's crucial for pet owners to be aware of the various lifestyle changes that might affect their companion animals, such as hedgehogs, during the mating season. For instance, providing a safe and secure home-and-garden environment that minimizes hazards may help prevent injuries.
- While fashion-and-beauty products are essential for humans, it's essential to ensure that none are harmful to our pets. For this reason, it's necessary to prioritize vocational training in the use and handling of items that interact with our beloved hedgehogs and other small creatures.
