When you’re feeling stressed and in need of a mood boost – pull up a Napper and check out hedgehogs. These spikey little sweethearts are surging in popularity and sure to help you smile. Curious to know more about these prickly animals? Look no further. We’ve put together some hedgehog fun facts to help take the weight off your shoulders for a minute or two.

Hello, Hedgehog!

Photo by Sierra NiCole Narvaeth on Unsplash

Hedgehogs are buoyant

A hedgehog can float in a small tub of water, and these critters actually love to swim!

A hog’s life

Once a baby hedgehog is capable of protecting itself, it'll go out on its own, preferring to be alone most of its life.

Quills of keratin

Hedgehog quills aren’t the same as porcupine quills; they don't come out of the hedgehog’s body. They're more like nails and made of keratin.

Masters of natural self-defense

In addition to having a spiky exterior that makes them not-so-delectable to predators, hedgehogs also have an extra layer of protection as they’re immune to many poisonous plants!

Hedgehogs Need Their Beauty Rest

Hedgehogs are mostly nocturnal, meaning they’re awake at night. But they aren’t awake for long, though. Hedgehogs can sleep for up to 18 hours per day!

Hedgehogs are also true hibernators. During colder winter months they can drop their body temperature to match their surroundings – this is called torpor. During torpor, hedgehogs save valuable body energy.

Hedgehogs' main food sources (insects and plants) are scarce during winter so it makes sense for them to “sleep” their way through.

Photo by Sierra NiCole Narvaeth on Unsplash

More Than A Pincushion With Legs

Ever feel like you want to curl up in a ball when you’re stressed? You aren’t alone! When a hedgehog feels threatened or stressed, it curls into a ball.

It’s a common misconception that hedgehogs can roll away while in their ball shape. Once in its round, spiky shape, the hedgehog must stay still.

As humans, we can’t always roll out of a stressful situation either. When you’re feeling stressed, try putting on the gentle pressure of a weighted blanket. Learn more about how weighted blankets work and the natural health benefits our Nappers deliver in our Ultimate Weighted Blanket Guide.

Read more: Bearaby Hogger