The Hedgehog
The hedgehog is a very unique animal. Their most striking feature is the spines that cover most of their body. Often times because of their spines hedgehogs are confused with porcupines, but they are not even related to porcupines. The hedgehog is part of the order Insectivora along with tenrecs, moles, and shrews.
The hedgehog is a cute, timid animal that have been adopted as exotic pets in many parts of the world. The most common type of hedgehog to have as a pet is the African Hedgehog, also known as “The African Pygmy Hedgehog”. The African Hedgehog is actually not a pygmy at all, but is sometimes called that because of its small size.
There are several reasons why the African Hedgehog is such a loved pet. The hedgehog can adjust to anyone’s schedule because they are nocturnal, but can also be woken up in the day to be played with. Another reason they make great pets is because unlike most other small animals, the hedgehog has no odor as long as they have a fairly clean cage and a good diet. Even if you are allergic to many kinds of animals you will not be allergic to hedgehogs because the hedgehog never sheds or danders. In the whole history of hedgehogs no one has ever been allergic to them. Hundreds of people are proud owners of the African Hedgehog.
In the wild, the hedgehog eats mostly insects but also eats mealworms, snails, mice, small birds, lizards, berries, fruits, and even snakes. As pets, the hedgehog eats cat food or a high quality hedgehog food. The pet hedgehog likes to eat insects (bought from a pet store, not just caught because wild bugs can make them sick) for treats, but this should not comprise their entire diet.
These shy creatures have been loved for centuries even before the first pet hedgehog. For example, Groundhog Day was originally Hedgehog Day. Hedgehogs have been a popular topic for many things, especially literature. One of the most famous hedgehogs is Sonic the hedgehog--a video game star. Another well known hedgehog is Beatrix Potter’s Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle, the hedgehog washerwoman. There is even a British wildlife hospital named after Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle!
This website is dedicated to giving accurate information about the hedgehog to hedgehog owners and fans. All of the information here is supplied by a well researched hedgehog owner. We hope you enjoy this site and are able to use the information provided throughout this site.
