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African pygmy hedgehog

The African pygmy hedgehog is the hedgehog kept as a pet, and it is not a species found in the wild — it is a hybrid, derived principally from the four-toed hedgehog of central and eastern Africa, developed in captivity from the 1980s.

It is small, spined, nocturnal and largely solitary, weighing between 250 and 700 grams. Hedgehogs are insectivores by nature and self-anoint, contorting to spread frothy saliva over their spines when they meet a new smell — a normal and slightly alarming behaviour that new owners often mistake for illness.

Origin
Captive hybrid, from the African four-toed hedgehog
Size
250–700 g
Lifespan
3–6 years
Diet
High-protein, low-fat; insects, with a suitable dry food base
Temperament
Solitary, nocturnal, shy; tames with patient handling
Legal
Prohibited in several US states and other jurisdictions

Related: Albino hedgehog · Algerian hedgehog

3 african pygmy hedgehog photos, newest first

  • Thistle, a african pygmy hedgehog

    Thistle

    Thistle has moved into a leaf, and is wearing a second leaf, apparently as a hat.

    FrostyOtter · 6 days ago

  • Saffron 12, a african pygmy hedgehog

    Saffron 12

    Saffron 12 got onto the table, then onto the books, and is now shouting about the view from the top of them.

    FrostyOtter · 1 week ago

  • Saffron 12, a african pygmy hedgehog

    Saffron 12

    Saffron 12 does not believe the camera is necessary.

    SunnyHeron · 2 weeks ago

Living with a african pygmy hedgehog

Check the law first — hedgehogs are illegal in a number of US states, including California and Hawaii, and in some other countries.

They need warmth. Below about 18–20°C a pygmy hedgehog may attempt hibernation, which is dangerous and often fatal in captivity; a thermostatically controlled heat source and a stable 22–25°C is standard.

Provide a large solid-surface wheel — they run several kilometres a night, and obesity is common without one.

House alone; they are solitary and adults fight.

Wobbly hedgehog syndrome, a progressive neurological disease, affects a significant proportion and has no cure.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. Individual critters vary, and anything about a specific animal is a question for a vet who has seen it.

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