Four-toed hedgehog Atelerix albiventris
Animals in our sanctuary
Puk (Male)
Puk was found hidden in a woman's handbag during a routine check at Raversijde airport. Four-toed hedgehog are not on the list of legal pets in Belgium. Puk was also obese. Now Puk can enjoy proper nutrition and exercise.
Appearance
The African pygmy hedgehog resembles the European hedgehog but is smaller and has a more slender build. Its back is covered with spines, while its belly and head have soft, light-colored fur. The spines have a distinctive white base and tip. Notably, this hedgehog has only four toes per foot instead of the usual five, which is why it is also known as the four-toed hedgehog.
Behavior
The African pygmy hedgehog is nocturnal and leads a solitary life. During the day, it hides in crevices among tree stumps, rocks, or leaves. It has a keen sense of smell and excellent hearing, allowing it to navigate even in complete darkness. In extreme cold or heat, it can enter a temporary state of torpor to conserve energy.
Diet
This hedgehog is primarily insectivorous, feeding on beetles, termites, ants, spiders, snails, and millipedes. It also eats small vertebrates such as lizards and young mice. Occasionally, eggs, fruits, and mushrooms are part of its diet. The African pygmy hedgehog is highly resistant to toxins and can safely consume scorpions and venomous snakes.
Habitat
The African pygmy hedgehog is found across large parts of Africa, especially in savannas, steppes, and semi-deserts. It avoids dense forests and prefers open landscapes with sufficient shelter.
Reproduction
African pygmy hedgehogs can breed throughout the year, but they usually wait for a period of abundant food. After a gestation period of approximately 30 to 35 days, two to four young are born. The young are blind at birth and have soft spines, which harden a few days later. After six to eight weeks, they become independent.
Threats
The African pygmy hedgehog is not considered a threatened species and has a stable population. However, illegal trade in the pet industry poses a risk. In some countries, such as Belgium, keeping this hedgehog as a pet is prohibited. In the United States, however, they are popular pets, and even hedgehog shows are organized. In the wild, African pygmy hedgehogs fall prey to predators such as owls, jackals, hyenas, and honey badgers. When threatened, they curl up into a spiky ball to protect themselves.
Sources
https://www.huisentuinkado.nl
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