Hedgehogs

A hedgehog is a small, spiny mammal that is growing in popularity as a pet. They are well-known for their defensive mechanism of curling into a tight ball.

Notable Hedgehog Species

Common NameScientific
Four-toed hedgehog Atelerix albiventris
European hedgehog Erinaceus europaeus
Long-eared hedgehog Hemiechinus auritus
Bare-bellied hedgehog Paraechinus nudiventris

Interesting Facts

  1. Common predators include badgers and large birds.
  2. Hedgehogs are omnivores and typically feed on insects.
  3. In captivity, they live 8 to 10 years, which is a long lifespan for a mammal of its size.
  4. Common health problems for hedgehogs include bone cancer and obesity.
  5. Domestic hedgehogs display a behavior called "tubing" where their heads get stuck in cylinder-shaped objects like cardboard toilet paper tubes.
  6. Sega's video game character Sonic the Hedgehog was introduced in 1991.