The hedgehog has had a close connection with people since the dawn of civilization, and has been an animal of fascination, endearment and cultural significance since the ancient Egyptians. The Romans regarded it as a weather prophet, and modern gardeners depend on the creature to keep their gardens free of pests.Hedgehog explores how this and other characteristics of the small creature have propelled it to the top of a number of polls of people’s favourite animals. It remains one of the few creatures that people can get close to without the fear of an attack, or it running away at the slightest movement. Hedgehog demonstrates that there is much to admire about this beautiful, and now threatened, icon of wildlife.

From the Romans who viewed the hedgehog as a weather prophet to modern gardeners who depend on the creature to keep gardens pest-free, the small, spiny animal has had a close connection with humans since the dawn of civilization. A creature of fascination, endearment, and cultural significance, it is one of the few wild animals that people can approach without the fear of attack or it running away. Exploring how this and other characteristics of the hedgehog have propelled it to become one of people's favorite animals, this book examines the natural and cultural history of these symbolic creatures. Following the hedgehog as it spreads through Europe and Asia to the foot of Africa, Hugh Warwick describes its evolution, behavior, habitat, and diet, as well as its current endangered status. He also looks at the animal's appeal, accessibility, and status as a pet in many countries, considering its appearance in advertising, films, children's books, and games. Casting new light on the ancestors of Sonic and Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle, Hedgehog is a fascinating look at these prickly, admirable animals.