How big do hedgehogs get?

Hedgehogs can grow to be anywhere from six to 14 inches long and weigh between 14 to 39 ounces. Their average body length varies from 5 to 12 inches, and their tails vary in length from 1 to 2 inches.

Hedgehog bodies are covered in a coat of closely spaced hard and sharp spines. This coat makes them appear larger than they are, helping to ward off predators. When threatened, the hedgehog rolls into a ball so a bite from an angle will hurt the predator. Hedgehogs often sleep in this position.

There are 15 species of hedgehogs from Europe, Asia and Africa. Their name comes from their tendency to forage for insect, snails, frogs and other small animals beneath hedges.