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.
Bibliography Macdonald, D., ed. Encyclopedia of Mammals, Vol. Parker, S., ed. Grzimek's Encyclopedia of Mammals, Vol. Gray Pub, pp.