European Hedgehog
Erinaceus europaeus
Conservation status: Endangered – Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981
When to see: April to October
About
The European hedgehog, also known as Erinaceus europaeus, is a small and nocturnal mammal. A healthy adult hedgehog typically weighs between 600-1200g and ranges in length from 20-30cm. Its most distinguishable feature is its spines, which can reach up to 3cm in length and covers the hedgehogs’ upper body. The spines serve as a form of defense mechanism against predators such as foxes or badgers. The European hedgehog has the ability to roll into a tight ball when threatened. They have dark brown fur on their legs, face, and underbelly with white tips on their spines. These are solitary animals most active during the night and can often be found in hedgerows, gardens, grasslands, or forest edges. As omnivores, they feed primarily on insects but are also known to eat fruits, slugs, worms or small rodents.
| See also different: | Garden mammals |
