European Hedgehog
The European Hedgehog is a small, spiny mammal native to Europe and Asia. It is known for its unique defense mechanism: when threatened, it will roll into a tight ball, completely enclosing itself in its sharp spines.
The European Hedgehog is a nocturnal and solitary animal that forages for a variety of insects, worms, and other invertebrates. It is often referred to as a "gardener's friend," as it helps to control insect populations.
European Hedgehog
Classification
Mammalia > Erinaceomorpha > Erinaceidae > Erinaceus > E. europaeus
Native To
Conservation Status
Average Height
8 - 10 inches
(20 - 25 cm)
Average Weight
1.5 - 2.5 lbs
(0.7 - 1.1 kg)
Average Life Span
3 - 5 years
Gestation Period
31 - 35 days
Did You Know?
The European Hedgehog has about 5,000 to 7,000 spines covering its back and sides.
They are nocturnal, meaning they are active at night.
When threatened, a European Hedgehog will roll into a tight, spiny ball to protect itself.
Their diet mainly consists of insects, slugs, snails, and worms.
European Hedgehogs hibernate during the winter months.
They are often found in gardens and parks, as well as woodlands and grasslands.
A European Hedgehog can travel up to 2 miles in a single night in search of food.
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