There are 11 species of hedgehog native to Africa, Asia, and Europe, and they have been introduced to New Zealand. Hedgehog quills are not barbed or poisonous. However, hedgehogs will apply a foamy saliva to their quills. A hedgehog has a large muscle running along its stomach which pulls its body into a tight, spiky little ball for defense. Large owls and raptors with well-protected feet and sharp claws are some of the only natural enemies of hedgehogs.
Hedgehogs give birth to one to seven babies which are born with the spines just below the skin.
Spines start to appear within 24 hours. Ecology and Conservation Hedgehogs help to control insect and vermin populations. They show a high tolerance to toxins, both natural and human-made. They have been known to consume many animals whose toxins could be fatal to humans including certain beetles, wasps, bees, and venomous snakes. Hedgehogs are also a food source for some larger animals.