Large Hedgehog Family with Seven Babies Spotted in Saulkrasti Region

In the Saulkrasti region, an observer managed to capture an unusual sight – a mother hedgehog with seven babies. During the observation, one of the babies strayed from the rest and required assistance to get back to its mother and siblings.

Hedgehogs typically inhabit areas rich in shrubs, deciduous trees, and dense ground vegetation – forest edges, agricultural lands, gardens, and parks. They often live near human settlements and even in cities.

These animals are active during the warm season, mainly at night. Although hedgehogs are omnivores, their diet consists mostly of invertebrates – beetles, caterpillars, snails, worms, and spiders.

Hedgehogs have a lifespan of 5–7 years. Their natural enemies include foxes, badgers, martens, wild boars, owls, and dogs. They are also threatened by vehicles, stubble burning, and pesticide use.