Are Hedgehogs Nocturnal?
Hedgehogs are small, spiky animals that typically weigh only a few ounces, and have a round body shape. People often wonder if these animals are nocturnal or not.
Hedgehog Biology
Hedgehogs are not classified as nocturnal animals. Nocturnality is a term used to describe animals that are active during the night, but hedgehogs do not fit into this category.
Hedgehogs are actually crepuscular, meaning they are most active during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk. This behavior is not uncommon among animals, as it allows them to find safety from predators without hindering their ability to seek food and water.
Hedhehog Habits
Hedgehogs will still come out during the night when conditions are safe. This usually occurs when there is no light pollution, or when temperatures are not too extreme. It is possible for hedgehogs to become very active in the late evening and night, but overall, they prefer to stay in the safety of their burrows during these times.
When hedgehogs come out at nighttime, they typically roam in search of food and water. They often use their sense of smell to find food and will consume insects, snails, fruit, nuts, and even small vertebrates, like baby mice. Water sources, such as puddles, can also be attractive to hedgehogs.
Kept as Pets
Hedgehogs are becoming increasingly popular as pets, and this is affecting their sleep patterns. Due to the presence of their owners, hedgehogs kept indoors can gradually adopt a different sleeping schedule, which may include naps during the day and more active periods at night.
Advantages of Nocturnality
Although hedgehogs are not classified as nocturnal animals, they still benefit from nocturnality. Being active at night allows them to evade predators and seek food and water. This behavior also helps them maintain their hydration and body temperature during warm and hot periods.
Overall, hedgehogs are not nocturnal animals but rather crepuscular. They tend to remain inactive during the night but are able to benefit from nocturnality when necessary.
