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.