There are 17 species of hedgehog in five genera found throughout parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa, and in New Zealand by introduction. There are no hedgehogs native to Australia and no living species native to the Americas. However, the extinct genus Amphechinus was once present in North America.
Hedgehogs are small, stout mammals characterized by sharp, keratinized spines or quills on their bodies. They are named so because they creep through hedges, grunting like pigs in search of insects, worms, beetles, termites, and other potential prey.
Often compared to pincushions, hedgehogs depend on their spines for defense—both while they sleep and when they face enemies. The head and body of adult hedgehogs range from 5 to 12 inches (13...
Hedgehogs belong to the sub-family Erinaceidae, a lineage of mammals that predates most modern species by roughly 15 million years. The most widespread species in Europe, the west European hedgehog, carries the scientific name Erinaceus europaeus.
There are 17 species of hedgehog and they are found in Europe, Africa and Asia. In the UK they can live in a variety of habitats including woodland, farmland, parks and gardens. Hedgehogs are also well established in our urban habitat and can, somewhat surprisingly, survive very well in our cities.
Hedgehogs live on the ground, never in trees. They like to live alone and may be territorial. Some hedgehogs dig burrows in the soil up to 20 inches (50 centimeters) deep. Others prefer to make nests with dead leaves, grasses, and branches.
Discover the fascinating world of hedgehogs, exploring their classification, physical traits, and unique subspecies. Learn about their habitats, behaviors, and adaptations.