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National Hedgehog Day

Go quill-to-quill with your spiky friends on National Hedgehog Day! Get to know these adorable critters and learn how to protect them.

Tuesday

February 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEFebruary 2

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAnimals

SUBCATEGORYSmall Pets

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate National Hedgehog Day on Feb. 2! This day was originally created in the early 2000s and has become a beloved tradition ever since. It's a great opportunity to learn more about these amazing creatures and how we can help them thrive in their natural environment. Whether you already own one of these adorable animals or are just looking for an excuse to start researching them, National Hedgehog Day is the perfect chance for everyone of all ages to get involved!

TIMELINE

National Hedgehog Day Timeline

Early Hedgehog References

During the 16th century, hedgehogs were often incorporated into folktales and stories, symbolizing cunning and intelligence.

Hedgehog English Proverb

The essence of the hedgehog's defensive nature was documented in an English language proverb in the 19th century, "Roll up like a hedgehog."

Hedgehogs as Pets

By mid-century, hedgehogs began to be kept as domestic pets, particularly four-toed hedgehogs which are native to Africa.

Sonic the Hedgehog Release

The friendly video game character Sonic the Hedgehog was created by Sega, making hedgehogs popular in pop culture.

Hedgehog Conservation

Major campaigns began for the preservation and protection of hedgehogs in wildlife in the UK, given their declining numbers.

National Hedgehog Day inception

National Hedgehog Day was created originally in the early 2000s as a day to recognize and love these charming creatures.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Hedgehog Day

Adopt a hedgehog

If you are looking for the perfect companion, why not adopt a hedgehog? Hedgehogs make wonderful pets and will bring joy to your home.

Go to a hedgehog show

Hedgehog shows are a great way to learn more about these spiky little creatures. Attend one of these shows to learn all about hedgehog care, nutrition and more.

DONATE

Donate to a hedgehog rescue

Show your support for these animals by making a donation to an animal rescue that specializes in hedgehogs. Your donation can help fund medical care, food, and other necessities for the rescued animals.

BUILD

Build a hedgehog habitat

Create an outdoor habitat for wild hedgehogs in your backyard or garden. Provide food, water, shelter and hiding places for these animals so they have a safe place to rest during the day.

HOST

Host a hedgehog party

Invite friends and family over for a fun celebration of National Hedgehog Day. Serve up some snacks shaped like hedgehogs, create crafts, and watch some movies featuring everyone's favorite spiny friend.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Hedgehog Day

Support wildlife conservation efforts

By adopting a hedgehog, you are helping to support conservation efforts in the wild. Hedgehog populations have been declining due to habitat destruction and other environmental issues, so by providing a home for one of these animals you are making a difference in its survival!

Adorable & playful

Hedgehogs are absolutely charming little creatures! They're incredibly social and love to explore their surroundings. Plus, they have playful personalities that make them great pets for both kids and adults alike!

Low maintenance pets

If you don't have the time or energy to take care of a larger pet, hedgehogs could be the perfect solution. They require minimal space, minimal fuss, and can even be litter trained! All they need is some fresh food and water, plus a few toys to keep them entertained!

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TUE

Feb 2026

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