Meet the Adorable Hedgehog!

Small, curious and covered in protective spines, the African Pygmy Hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) is a fascinating little mammal. It is mainly nocturnal, becoming active in the evening and at night.

🌍 Origin

African Pygmy Hedgehogs are native to central, eastern and parts of western Africa, where they live in dry grasslands and open habitats.

🦔 Varieties

Hedgehog colour varieties can differ in their quill, face and skin coloration. Captive African pygmy hedgehogs may be available in several colour forms.

🐛 Food

Hedgehogs are primarily insectivorous omnivores. Their natural diet includes insects and other small invertebrates, along with some plant material. In captivity, a suitable commercial hedgehog/insectivore diet can be supplemented with appropriately prepared insects and small amounts of suitable vegetables or fruit.

🏡 Cage Setup

A hedgehog needs a secure, spacious enclosure with:

• 🛏️ Soft, absorbent bedding
• 🏠 A hide or nesting box
• 🛞 A solid-surface exercise wheel
• 🌿 Safe enrichment and tunnels
• 💧 Fresh drinking water
• 🌡️ Stable warm temperature

A minimum floor area of around 60 × 90 cm is recommended by the MSD Veterinary Manual, with larger space being preferable. Hedgehogs should generally be housed individually because they are naturally solitary.

🥚 Breeding

African pygmy hedgehogs are mammals that give birth to live young. Breeding should be undertaken only with appropriate knowledge and veterinary guidance. Females need privacy and a quiet nesting environment around birth because disturbance can increase the risk of abandonment or harm to the young.

❤️ Common Health Issues

Some health problems include:

• ⚖️ Obesity
• 🦠 Parasites and skin problems
• 🦷 Dental/oral disease
• ❤️ Heart disease
• 🧠 Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome
• 🎗️ Tumours
• 👁️ Eye problems

Regular weight monitoring, good nutrition, exercise, proper temperature and veterinary care are important.