Hedgehog
Atelerix albiventris (African pygmy) · Mammal, erinaceid
From the Capy Learning Corner encyclopedia
- Native range
- The African pygmy hedgehog, the common pet species, comes from the savannas of central Africa; wild hedgehog species range across Africa, Europe, and Asia.
- Size
- Roughly half a pound to a pound and a half, in a coat of about 5,000 spines.
- Lifespan
- Commonly 3 to 6 years in good care.
- Conservation
- The African pygmy hedgehog is of Least Concern; some wild hedgehogs elsewhere are declining.
Little Learners Corner
When a hedgehog feels nervous, it rolls into a perfect spiky ball, like a living pinecone.
Say it like a scientist: at-el-AIR-iks al-bih-VEN-triss
Where They Live
Nocturnal ground foragers that cover surprising distances each night hunting insects.
What They Eat
Insectivore at heart: beetles, grubs, and worms, with some plant matter.
How They Live
Solitary. When threatened, a hedgehog rolls into a complete spiked sphere, powered by a remarkable ring muscle that draws the coat closed like a drawstring bag.
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Hedgehogs as Pets?
Hedgehogs are nocturnal, solitary, and heat dependent, and they self anoint, contorting to spread frothy saliva on their spines for reasons science still debates. Charming, strange, and more work than the internet suggests. Also illegal in a few states.
Fun Facts
A hedgehog's roll up is powered by one big circular muscle, like closing a drawstring bag from inside.
Self anointing, frothing at new smells and painting it on their spines, remains one of zoology's happiest mysteries.
Hedgehogs have notable resistance to many natural toxins and will munch things that would sicken other small mammals.
Capy Quiz: Prove It
What is hedgehog self anointing?
Keep exploring: Sloth came before this, Capybara is next, or head back to the full Animal Encyclopedia.
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