Earthworms are terrestrial invertebrates. They have a tube-within-a-tube body arrangement, corresponding to outer and inner segmentation, and usually have hairs on each segment. They can be found wherever the soil, water, and temperature are favorable. Commonly found in soil, earthworms consume a range of organic materials. Plant material, live protozoa, rotifers, nematodes, bacteria, fungi, and other microbes are all considered to be organic matter. Since hedgehogs enjoy eating worms, it is normal to question if they can eat earthworms.
CAN HEDGEHOGS EAT EARTHWORMS?
Yes, hedgehogs can eat earthworms but because they are so high in fat, they shouldn't be provided all the time. While earthworms shouldn't be used in place of your hedgehog's regular meal, they are a good supplement. Since they enjoy digging in the ground, earthworms are simple prey for nosey hedgehogs exploring through tall grass.
Earthworms are not only safe for hedgehogs to eat, but they also make up a significant portion of their diet, along with other creatures like beetles, caterpillars, and slugs. Earthworms can be bought at most pet stores and fed to domestic hedgehogs the same way you would feed any other insect or small animal.
BENEFITS OF FEEDING EARTHWORMS TO HEDGEHOGS.
- They contain a lot of protein: Protein in earthworms helps hedgehogs feel fuller for longer, which prevents them from desiring late-night snacks and helps in maintaining weight loss. Additionally, it stimulates metabolism and promotes fat burning while also increasing muscular build and strength. Furthermore, protein helps to lower a hedgehog's blood pressure.
- They improve digestion: Fiber, which is present in earthworms, promotes gut health by regulating bowel movements. It aids a hedgehog in achieving a healthy weight by lowering cholesterol and controlling blood sugar levels.
- High iron content: Earthworms have a lot of iron in them. Hemoglobin, which transports oxygen throughout the body, and red blood cells are normally formed with the help of iron. It supports high energy levels and lessens exhaustion. Hedgehogs benefit from iron by performing better physically and mentally.
- Excellent supply of amino acids: This aids in digestion and tissue repair. It serves as a source of energy and develops a hedgehog's muscles. The immune system of a hedgehog is strengthened by amino acids, which also support healthy digestion.
- They are calcium-rich: Earthworms are a good source of strong, healthy bones. Calcium supports bone and heart health, strengthens teeth, and transports nutrients. Hedgehogs benefit from its modulation of muscular contractions and assistance in keeping a healthy weight.
- They possess lots of copper: Copper is a nutrient that hedgehogs need to function. It helps their bodies produce red blood cells along with iron. It contributes to iron absorption, maintains strong bones, blood vessels, and nerves, and keeps the immune system healthy. Enough copper in a hedgehog’s diet may also help prevent cardiovascular disease.
- They are rich in manganese: Manganese aids in the formation of bones, connective tissue, and blood clotting components in hedgehogs. Additionally, it contributes to the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates, calcium absorption, and blood sugar control. The manganese that earthworms provide is also essential for healthy nerve and brain function.
- Earthworms possess lots of zinc: Zinc is important for several processes, including thyroid function, blood coagulation, and wound healing. The sense of taste and smell as well as the healing of wounds of hedgehogs depends on zinc. Additionally, it is essential in aiding their vision.
RISKS OF FEEDING EARTHWORMS TO HEDGEHOGS.
Like anything else, giving earthworms to hedgehogs in excess or regularly carries some risks. Hedgehogs who consume an excessive amount of earthworms may contract the internal parasite Capillaria. Small parasites called Capillaria typically attack the bladder or respiratory system. Capillaria is a condition that you might not even be aware a hedgehog has as it normally doesn't make them violently unwell. If your hedgehog has capillaries, you can notice blood in the urine if the parasite is in the bladder or wheezing and coughing if the infection is respiratory in nature. Your hedgehog generally won't become violently ill in either scenario.
You shouldn't be overly concerned if a veterinarian determines that your hedgehog has Capillaria. Giving your hedgehog a dewormer is all that is necessary, and it is simple to accomplish. You won't have to worry about coaxing your hedgehog to get medicine into its mouth because more dewormers work after a single treatment. Making sure you do not overfeed your hedgehogs with earthworms is the best way to stop capillaries in hedgehogs.
HOW TO STORE EARTHWORMS FOR HEDGEHOGS.
It is advisable to avoid putting earthworms in the refrigerator and instead keep them in the plastic container or bag they come in. It is possible to purchase earthworms from a retail establishment as a quick and nutritious snack, however, it is worthwhile to spend money on a sizable worm keeper if you plan to purchase the earthworms in bulk or keep them as a long-term feeding source. You will be able to feed the earthworms a variety of items, such as green kitchen trash, mashed potatoes, and oats in moderation.
FEEDING EARTHWORMS TO HEDGEHOGS.
Some hedgehog keepers suggest a novel technique that might entice a hedgehog to go searching for earthworms, which includes encouraging the hedgehog to rummage through the thick grass and collect some earthworms for itself. This strategy entails letting specific areas of the garden become overgrown.
However, worms raised in unsanitary conditions or found in the backyard may have harmful parasites or pesticides in their intestines. These herbicides and parasites pose a serious threat to our hedgehogs. As a result, you must feed your hedgehogs earthworms with the utmost caution. The best choice is to just give them pet store-purchased earthworms to eat.
CONCLUSION.
Earthworms can be consumed by hedgehogs, and they can offer them some excellent nourishment. However, considering their high-fat content, they shouldn't be provided in place of your hedgehog's regular food. Moderation is crucial when feeding your hedgehog any kind of insect or worm. In general, earthworms should only be offered as a special treat.
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