30 Animals That Made Us Smarter

Hedgehog and helmet

07.18.2021 - By BBC World ServicePlay

Download our free app to listen on your phone

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

S2 Ep4. A hedgehog could save your life! Spiky quills protect hedgehogs from being eaten by predators. But they also play an important role in cushioning the animal when it falls, keeping it safe even if it plunges from a great height. And now, they can help keep humans safe, too. By mimicking the flexibility, strength and pattern of the quills, scientists have developed a sports helmet that could prevent concussions.

Thanks for listening. Let us know what you think.

#30Animals

Get in touch: www.bbcworldservice.com/30animals

More episodes from 30 Animals That Made Us Smarter