THE HEDGEHOG.
THE hedgehog is found on both sides of the
Atlantic, and although so common, is
considered a curiosity by every one. Its
quills, or spines, as they are called, are
much shorter than the porcupine's, being
only an inch long; but they are given for
the same purpose, defense. He can also roll
himself up like the porcupine, putting his
head out of sight, and presenting only an
array of sharp spikes for any to take hold
of who wishes to hold him.
The quills of the hedgehog enable him
to roll off from a precipice without injuring
himself. One has been seen repeatedly
to throw itself from a wall twelve or
fourteen feet in height, and to fall upon
the hard ground without appearing to be
hurt at all.
The only animal that succeeds in capturing
the hedgehog is the crafty fox, and he
does so by carefully rolling the little
creature into a small pool of water, when
the unlucky fellow unfolds itself to see
what is the matter, and is at once seized.
Poisons are said to have no effect upon
the hedgehog. Deadly poisons have been
tried, which proved as harmless to him as
so much water. This, if true, is singular
indeed, and if the reasons were known,
might prove of great value to man.
Its fondness for insects has led to its being
tamed, and it is very useful in clearing
a house of vermin.
