Hedgehog gestation lasts 35–58 days, depending on species. The average litter is three to four newborns for larger species and five to six for smaller ones. As with many animals, it is not unusual for an adult male hedgehog to kill newborn males. Hedgehogs have a relatively long lifespan for their size. In captivity, lack of predators and controlled diet contribute to a lifespan of eight to ...
Diet Hedgehogs are omnivores with a diverse diet that includes insects, small invertebrates, and plant materials such as roots, seeds, berries, and melons. The European hedgehog primarily feeds on earthworms, beetles, millipedes, caterpillars, earwigs, snails, slugs, and occasionally bird eggs and chicks. In contrast, hedgehogs residing in African deserts have a more varied diet adapted to ...
Hedgehog Hedgehogs have prickly spines everywhere except on their face, legs, and bellies. By curling into a tight ball and tucking in their heads, tail, and legs, they protect the parts of their bodies that do not have stiff, sharp spines. Often compared to pincushions, hedgehogs depend on their spines for defense—both while they sleep and when they face enemies.
Discover more about Hedgehogs, the issues and threats they are facing and how you can help.
Think you know hedgehogs? From "self-anointing" rituals to their ancient 15-million-year lineage, a field biologist reveals 12 weird facts!
Learn about the physical characteristics, habitats, and behaviors of 17 different types, from the commonly known European and African Pygmy Hedgehogs to the lesser-known Daurian and Brandt's Hedgehogs. Discover their diverse diets and other aspects that make each sub-species distinct.
The hedgehog can live in many different habitats, from desert to forest and beyond! The desert-dwelling types live in areas that receive little rainfall. Others live throughout Asia. European hedgehogs are widespread in Europe, from the Mediterranean to Scandinavia. In Africa, hedgehogs live in savannas, forests, and even city streets, where they waddle along, foraging for insects. Hedgehogs ...