Hedgehog
Atelerix albiventris
🌍 Overview
The African pygmy hedgehog - the species most commonly kept as a pet - is native to the arid savanna and grassland of central Africa. Wild hedgehogs are solitary, nocturnal insectivores that travel several miles each night in search of food. When threatened, they curl into a tight ball of interlocking spines that effectively deters most predators. Their spines are not barbed or poisonous - they are hollow, hardened hairs.
📋 Quick Facts
Native Range
Central Africa (Senegal to Tanzania)
Natural Habitat
Savanna, grassland, and dry woodland
Adult Size
5-9 inches (13-23 cm); 8-24 oz
Wild Diet
Insects, worms, snails, small vertebrates, eggs, and some plant matter
Wild Lifespan
3-5 years
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN)
⚖️ Compare
Hedgehog
Human
Adult Size
5-9 inches (13-23 cm); 8-24 oz
5-6 feet (150-185 cm); ~135-200 lbs
Wild Lifespan
3-5 years
~73 years (global average)
Wild Diet
Insects, worms, snails, small vertebrates, eggs, and some plant matter
Omnivorous - eats just about anything
Native Range
Central Africa (Senegal to Tanzania)
Global - originated in Africa roughly 300,000 years ago
Natural Habitat
Savanna, grassland, and dry woodland
Everywhere from arctic tundra to tropical megacities
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN)
Least Concern (8+ billion and counting)
🧠 Test Yourself
What's the Hedgehog's native range?
🤩 Fun Facts
🦔 Spiny Situation
Hedgehogs have between 5,000 and 7,000 spines on their back! Each spine lasts about a year before it falls out and a new one grows in its place. Baby hedgehogs are born with their spines just below the skin.
🦔 Cuddle Drones
Hedgehogs can run at speeds up to 6 miles per hour, which is quite fast for such small creatures! But don't be fooled by their spiny exterior; they love to curl up into little balls for cuddles when they're feeling safe.
📖 Care Guide
Hedgehog Care Guide
The spiky little explorer that runs on a wheel all night!
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🤓 Did You Know?
When threatened, hedgehogs roll into a tight ball and can make a variety of cute snuffling and hissing sounds. They're surprisingly vocal!
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