FaunaHub

Hedgehog

MammalInsectivoreNocturnal

A European hedgehog with brown spines on grass.

European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus).

Image: Gaudete, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons.

Overview

Hedgehogs are small spiny mammals of the subfamily Erinaceinae, with numerous species across Europe, Africa, Asia, and New Zealand (where they were introduced). This page is a group-level overview; the European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is used as a familiar reference species. Hedgehogs are best known for the coat of stiff spines they roll into a ball to protect themselves.

Habitat & Range

European hedgehogs live in woodland edges, hedgerows, grassland, parks, and gardens, where they shelter by day in nests of leaves and vegetation. Other hedgehog species occupy habitats ranging from forest to dry savanna and semi-desert in their own regions. Habitat and range vary by species, so a description of one hedgehog does not apply to all.

Diet

Hedgehogs are mainly insectivores with a broad diet of invertebrates such as beetles, caterpillars, earthworms, and slugs, supplemented by other small animals and occasional plant material. Because they eat many invertebrates that gardeners consider pests, hedgehogs are often welcomed in gardens within their range. Diet varies seasonally and by species.

Behavior

Hedgehogs are largely nocturnal and solitary. Their signature defence is to curl into a tight ball, presenting only their spines to a predator. In cooler climates some species hibernate through winter, and many show a curious behaviour called "self-anointing", spreading frothy saliva over their spines in response to new smells. Specific behaviour varies between species.

Human Interaction & Conservation

Wild hedgehogs are popular garden visitors, and in some regions populations have declined, prompting conservation interest; status should be checked against current sources. Some species are kept as exotic pets, but this is regulated or prohibited in many places and has specific welfare needs, so local law and qualified care guidance should always be consulted. This page is educational, not care or veterinary advice.

Appearance & Recognition

Hedgehogs are small and rounded, with a coat of short, stiff spines (modified hairs) covering the back and sides, and softer fur on the face, legs, and belly. They have a pointed snout, small eyes, and short legs. Spine colour is usually banded brown and cream, giving a grizzled look. When threatened, the animal contracts a band of muscle to roll into a spiny ball.

Similar Animals

Hedgehogs are sometimes confused with porcupines, but the two are unrelated: porcupines are large rodents with long, barbed quills, while hedgehogs are small insectivores with short spines. They are more closely related to moonrats and shrews. The spiny but unrelated echidna of Australasia is another look-alike.

More photos of the hedgehog

A European hedgehog walking across short grass.

A European hedgehog foraging.

Image: kallerna, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Frequently Asked Questions — Hedgehog

Are hedgehog spines like porcupine quills?
Both are modified hairs, but they work differently. Hedgehog spines are short and stay attached, used as armour when the animal rolls into a ball. Porcupine quills are long and can detach. Hedgehogs and porcupines are not closely related.
Do hedgehogs hibernate?
Some do. In cooler climates, species such as the European hedgehog hibernate through winter, while hedgehogs in warm regions may not. Hibernation depends on the species and the local climate.
Can hedgehogs be kept as pets?
Some species are kept as exotic pets, but it is regulated or banned in many places and they have specialised welfare needs. FaunaHub does not provide care advice — always check local law and consult qualified exotic-pet veterinary guidance before considering any wild or exotic animal.

Sources and further reading

Authoritative wildlife references used for general educational context. Conservation status should always be verified against current IUCN Red List data. External links open in a new tab.