How do Hedgehog sleep?

How Do Hedgehogs Sleep?
Hedgehogs are primarily nocturnal animals, which means they are most active during the night and sleep during the day. To rest, hedgehogs instinctively seek out warm, dark, and enclosed spaces where they feel safe and secure. In the wild, they may nest in piles of leaves, hollow logs, underground burrows, or thick underbrush. In captivity, pet hedgehogs will often sleep inside small hideouts, fabric pouches, or cozy boxes provided by their owners. When a hedgehog sleeps, it typically curls up into a tight ball, pulling its head, legs, and tail inward. This position is a natural defense mechanism—the hedgehog’s sharp quills on the outside act as protection from potential predators.

During sleep, hedgehogs enter a deep, restful state, often sleeping 12 to 14 hours a day. In colder climates or when exposed to lower temperatures, wild hedgehogs may enter hibernation, a state of extended, energy-saving sleep where their body temperature, heart rate, and metabolism drop significantly. In contrast, some African species, like the African pygmy hedgehog (commonly kept as pets), do not hibernate but may enter a temporary torpor if the environment becomes too cold or stressful. Regardless of species, hedgehogs value warmth, quiet, and minimal disturbance during their sleeping hours. Providing a comfortable and secure sleeping environment is essential for the well-being of pet hedgehogs, as proper sleep supports their immune system, mood, and overall health.