Biological Facts

• African pygmy hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris)
• Native to West and Central Africa. One of many hedgehog species found in Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
• They live in brush piles, rock crevices, and burrows. An insectivore related to moles and shrews
• Average life span 3-5 years; can live up to 10 years
• Reaches sexual maturity by 68 days, but first breeding generally does not occur until 6-8 months

Behavior

• Have a very strong sense of smell which they use to identify their surroundings
• Will “self anoint” if exposed to strong or unusual smell, foaming at the mouth then spreading the foam over their bodies
• Nocturnal habits – more active at night than during the day
• Need to be handled and well-socialized when young to make well-adjusted pets
• Some adult hedgehogs may not like to be handled regardless of socialization when young
• Will range up to 1 mile in the wild
• Do not hibernate
• Will use exercise wheels (solid plastic, not open wire wheels)

Diet

• Commercial hedgehog diet (light or reduced calorie, high-quality adult cat food (NOT FISH) may be used if hedgehog food is unavailable) about 3 teaspoons/day
• 1 teaspoon daily of chopped mixed vegetables and/or fruits (beans, carrots, apples, pears, berries, squash, peas, potatoes, tomatoes)
• Offer live insects such as gut-loaded crickets, mealworms, earthworms, 3-4 times a week (avoid waxworms because they are high in fat)
• Diet is extremely important because obesity is one of the most common medical problems seen in pet hedgehogs!

Housing

• Hedgehogs are best housed individually, but may be kept in small groups as long as there is only one adult male.
• Prefer quiet, dim environments. React with fright to loud noises or bright light.
• Cage should provide enough room for movement and exercise. A 20 gallon or larger Vivarium, indoor rabbit cage, or similar smooth-walled enclosure is preferred in order to prevent escape.
• Enclosures with wire mesh bottoms are not recommended as these can cause foot and leg injuries.
• Enjoy privacy and require a box or other suitable hiding spot
• Aspen shavings or recycled newspaper bedding recommended (NOT pine or cedar)
• water bottle with fresh water should be available at all times
• Average temperature should be kept around 70-85°F. Low temperatures may induce hibernation. Provide supplemental heat with under-tank heating pads and radiant heat emitters as needed (must be thermostated)
  
  A sales receipt and care sheet will be included when purchasing your Hedgehog with all the information you need to care for it. We are also on hand everyday for help and advice if you need itand we also care for your animal in store when your are on holiday (ask about our pet boarding sevice)