Why do hedgehogs roll into balls?
Show answer & explanation
Answer: Spines protect when curled
Stretching spine muscles — Wrong. Rolling isn't exercise—it's predator defense. Muscles pull hedgehog into ball, exposing 5,000+ sharp spines in all directions.
Temperature regulation method — Wrong. Curling doesn't regulate temperature. It's anti-predator behavior—protecting soft underbelly by exposing sharp quills.
Spines protect when curled ✓ — Correct! Defensive posture! Hedgehogs roll into tight ball when threatened. Defense: (1) ~5,000-7,000 spines cover back/sides. (2) Special muscles (orbicularis) pull body into ball. (3) Soft belly/face protected inside. (4) Predators encounter spines in all directions. Spines: modified hairs (keratin), not barbed (vs porcupine). Baby hedgehogs (hoglets): soft spines harden after birth. Predators: badgers, foxes learn to unroll hedgehogs. Also: hibernate curled in ball!
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