Four-toed Hedgehog

Atelerix albiventris

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mammalia · Eulipotyphla · Erinaceidae

About

The four-toed hedgehog, also known as the African pygmy hedgehog, is a species of hedgehog found throughout much of central and eastern Africa.

Fun Fact

Four-toed hedgehogs perform a bizarre behavior called 'self-anointing' — when they encounter a new smell, they produce frothy saliva and spread it over their spines, possibly as camouflage or toxin defense.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Savannas and grasslands

Diet

Omnivore

Lifespan

4-6 years

Threats

Invasive Species
Overgrazing

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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