A hedgehog is a small spiny mammal belonging to the subfamily Erinaceinae in the family Erinaceidae. Hedgehogs are found in Europe, Asia, and Africa, and they are characterized by their short legs, round bodies, and sharp spines, which cover their backs and sides. They are nocturnal animals and feed primarily on insects, worms, and other small invertebrates. Hedgehogs are known for their ability to roll into a ball, tucking their head and legs inside their spiny coat as a form of self-defense against predators. They are popular pets in some parts of the world, but their wild populations are declining due to habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as road traffic accidents.