This young Hedgehog usually arrives before dark sets in and helps itself to most of the dried mealworms in the dish. One night when I noticed it was there I went out with the camera and as long as I kept my distance it carried on eating, though with one eye on me. The flash from the camera did not bother it at all. Sticking to its nose are bits from the crushed unsalted peanuts.
There are at least two regulars and there may be as many as four. It is hard to tell. If you think of Hedgehogs as timid little creatures then you are in for a shock when you see Friday's video. I have seen Hedgehogs charge each other in the past but what was caught on camera was a Hedgie Tantrum and really took me, and the opponent I think, by surprise.
Charming shots of a scene becoming worryingly rare.
ReplyDeleteYes they can be quite nasty towards each other John.
ReplyDeleteHi John,
ReplyDeleteThe Hedgehogs in our garden are getting quite vocal at the moment with grunts and snuffles coming from the 3 regulars. One has taken to charging the others, I don`t know whether this is to scare the others off, or some sort of mating ritual!
J
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Very cute with its peanut nose! Fortunate that it stayed put and you were able to get some good camera shots! You've got us on pins and needles anticipating Fridays Flicks now. Were you able to get any photos of the eclipse? Thanks for letting us know that it wasn't visible in N. America ...actually the whole night sky was cloud covered and it poured, so no moon to see at all!
ReplyDeleteThank you Tim for visiting and leaving a comment.
ReplyDeleteThey certainly can Roy.
ReplyDeleteHello John. When I have heard loud snuffling here it seems to be associated with the mating ritual. It seems to go on for days. I have assumed the charging is a territorial thing. It certainly is when it comes to their food dish.
ReplyDeleteThe young Hedgehog seem to be very bold though it does disappear when a certain hairy monster gets too close.
ReplyDeleteCloudy sky here also Glo. Just caught a fuzzy glimpse of the Moon half in shadow.
Lovely photos John! I remember some clashes in our garden when they used to visit regularly.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely love these shots John - I've got a real soft spot for hedgehogs - this year I spent 9 days nursing one that was out in the day but I think he was quite an old boy and he v. sadly didn't survive - so far this year haven't spotted anymore but I live in hope... Miranda
ReplyDeleteThank you Jan. Some clashes seem to have got rougher this year.
ReplyDeletePleased you like them Miranda. It is sad to see a wild animal you are caring for pass away. The only little one I took to the local hedgehog rescue centre didn't make it.
ReplyDelete