Hobbies And Interests
Hedgehog Facts
Hedgehogs are small mammals covered with prickly spines for protection. They are native to parts of Europe, Asia and Africa. They are bred around the world as exotic pets. It is illegal in certain states and cities in the United States to have one as a pet, while others require a permit. In the wild, they mainly eat insects, but will also eat small mice, lizards, snakes and eggs. Hedgehogs have a lifespan of about seven years.
Hedgehog Pets
Hedgehogs have been domesticated since the 1980s. They do not have dander, like cats and dogs, so they make a good pet for people with allergies. They must be kept indoors in a warm environment and can live in a dry aquarium or hamster cage. But they need lots of exercise and should have a wheel or time to roam around. They can be litter trained and kept free-roaming, but the home must be hedgehog proofed. A creatively fenced-off, hedgehog-safe area is the best option. Domesticated hedgehogs eat a diet of mealworms, fruit, vegetables, cooked meat and high grade cat food.
Hedgehog Breeding
The most commonly bred hedgehog is the African Pygmy hedgehog, which is smaller than the European hedgehog. The Egyptian long-eared hedgehog and the Indian long-eared hedgehog are also bred for pets. Breeding has resulted in a wide variety of colors ranging from black to apricot to albino.
Hedgehog Shows
Entering a pet hedgehog in a show is an opportunity for hedgehog owners to socialize with other owners and to learn more about their pets. Show standards may vary slightly, but generally hedgehogs are grouped by gender, age and color. They're shown either individually with their handler or in a group of hedgehogs for the judges.