Did you know that hedgehogs can be considered exotic pets? It’s true! It’s true! Only four domesticated species of hedgehogs can be kept as pets.
We will introduce you to 17 types of hedgehogs including wild and domesticated species.
The 17 Types Of Hedgehog Breeds
1. African Pygmy Hedgehog
The African Pygmy hedgehog was the first domesticated breed of hedgehog. It is also known as a “four-toed” hedgehog. They are the most well-known type of domesticated hedgehog sold as pets. They are energetic, independent, nocturnal, and can run up to five miles per night.
2. Algerian Hedgehog
The second most popular domesticated hedgehog breed, an Algerian-related species, was domesticated in the fourth century by the Romans to be used as a pet, meat, and quill. They can grow up to 7-10 inches in length.
3. Egyptian Long-Eared Hedgehog
Although smaller than European hedgehogs when they are found wild, this domesticated breed hibernates for shorter periods of time in winter and summer. If you want to keep a long-eared hedgehog as a pet, make sure you get it from a reliable dealer.
4. Indian Long-Eared Hedgehog
These animals are the last of the four domesticated hedgehog species. They are indigenous to India and Pakistan. The Indian Long-Eared hedgehog is able to withstand extreme heat and cold better than other hedgehogs.
5. European Hedgehog
These common hedgehogs are found throughout Europe. They can live up to 10 years and grow up to 1 foot in length.
6. Southern White-Breasted Hedgehog
The Southern White-Breasted hedgehog is found in Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It differs from the European by its white belly, and its tendency to build a nest out of grass rather than digging.
7. Northern White-Breasted Hedgehog
These hedgehogs are easily identifiable by their white bellies. They were originally found in Eastern Europe but have since spread to Russia, Ukraine, and the Caucasus.
8. Amur Hedgehog
The Amur hedgehog is native to Central Asia and can grow to over a foot in length. They can also be found in South-Eastern Russia and Korea.
9. Somali Hedgehog
These small hedgehogs are found only in Somalia. They have a white belly and brown legs.
10. Southern African Hedgehog
The South African hedgehog is handsome and has a distinct white stripe on its forehead against dark fur. These hedgehogs can be found in South Africa, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
11. Daurian Hedgehog
The Daurian hedgehog is a protected species in Russia, Northern Mongolia, and other countries. It grows to a mere 6-8 inches in length.
12. Hugh’s hedgehog
Hugh’s hedgehog is native to Central China and Manchuria. Its voracious appetite sometimes causes it to seek out food during the day — something that other hedgehogs don’t share.
13. Desert Hedgehog
Desert hedgehogs are the pint-sized prince among hedgehogs. They can grow to just six inches in length. They are found in deserts throughout North Africa and the Middle East.
14. Indian Hedgehog
Although they share a name with domesticated hedgehogs, this species is only found in the wild. They are found in the high mountains of India and Pakistan. Their small size and mask-like facial markings make them easily identifiable.
15. Brandt’s hedgehog
Brandt’s hedgehog can be found naturally in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Yemen. It is distinguished by its dark fur and quills and has larger ears than other hedgehogs. They can jump on predator spikes first when threatened.
16. Gaoligong Forest Hedgehog
This rare species was only discovered in 2018, and can only be found on Mt. Gaoligong is located in Yunnan, China. They hibernate from October to April, almost half of the year.
17. Bare-Bellied Hedgehog
This rare species is endemic to Southeastern India. It was once thought that it was extinct. They can now be found in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.
Last Thoughts
Hedgehogs can be found all over the globe and are an interesting animal that often goes unnoticed. We are grateful that you took the time to look through our list of hedgehog species and hope you enjoy learning more about these fascinating mammals.
How many different types of hedgehogs are there?
There are 17 species in five genera of hedgehogs worldwide: Erinaceus, Paraechinus, Mesechinus, Atelerix, and Hemiechinus. They are found across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia.
Are hedgehogs deaf or blind?
Despite their low eyesight, they have excellent hearing and a keen sense of smell. Hedgehogs are excellent runners, climbers, and swimmers.
Do hedgehogs ever cry?
Screaming Like a Child If you hear a hedgehog cry, you could believe it’s from a really disturbed human infant. Only hogs in great anguish and suffering make this sound. The hog will be hurt or imprisoned someplace.
Do hedgehogs want to be petted?
Some hedgehogs enjoy having their spines handled, while others dislike having their spines touched or rubbed. When getting to know your pet, start with soft touches wherever your hedgehog seems not to notice.
Is it possible to kiss a hedgehog?
Play responsibly. Kissing or cuddling hedgehogs can introduce Salmonella bacteria to your face and lips, making you ill. Hedgehogs should not be allowed to walk freely in locations where food is made or kept, such as kitchens.
Is it preferable to have 1 or 2 hedgehogs?
Hedgehogs are naturally solitary creatures.
Hedgehogs will fight if they do not get along, occasionally inflicting considerable harm on one another. For these reasons, it is advisable to have only one hedgehog per cage.
Do hedgehogs get connected to their owners?
Some hedgehogs form lifelong bonds with their owners (HHC). Bonding does need work, persistence, and knowledge about hedgehogs. Many hedgehogs prefer not to be stroked by strangers until they are entirely at ease in their surroundings. This is especially crucial when a hedgehog relocates.
Do hedgehogs require daily care?
All animals demand time and dedication, and a pet should never be acquired on the spur of the moment. But I’m pleased to inform you that hedgehogs ARE low-maintenance pets. Cleaning your hedgehogs’ cage, food dish, water bottle, wheel, and other toys should take around fifteen minutes to a half hour every week.
Do hedgehogs need to eat every day?
A lot of hedgehog owners recommend one spoonful of food once to twice a day. Most people prefer a flexible eating schedule. The term “electronic commerce” refers to the sale of electronic goods. Pregnant and lactating pigs are anticipated to consume extra calories.
What kinds of hedgehogs make good pets?
The most common type of hedgehog to keep as a pet is the African Pygmy Hedgehog. The African Pygmy Hedgehog is also known as a white-bellied hedgehog or a four-toed hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris).