AFRICAN HEDGEHOG
Atelerix albiventris
MAMMAL
Order Insectivora
Description
7-11 in long, including tail; generally
smaller than Eurasian genus. Upper parts covered with short spines, mainly
white at base and tip with central dark band. Face, limbs, and tail hair
gray to dark brown, belly hair white to black.
Range
Senegal to Sudan and Zambia (other species
are found elsewhere in Africa). |
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Ecology
Habitat
- grassland, scrub, savanna and suburban gardens.
Refuges changed daily unless a female is raising young.
Niche
- omnivorous: diet includes invertebrates, small
vertebrates, eggs, fruit, and fungi. Nocturnal, solitary, mostly terrestrial.
In southern Africa, hibernation occurs when the weather turns cool and
dry (Jun-Sep).
Life History
Gestation about a month; young born during warm,
wet months (Oct-Mar) in southern Africa. Usually 4-5 young in a litter;
newborns have their eyes closed and spines beneath the skin. Young are weaned
at about 6 weeks, become sexually mature after about 2 months.
Special Adaptations
- Stiff spines provide protection from potential
predators.
- When erected, spines stick out in many directions.
- Loose skin and powerful back muscles allow animal
to curl into a ball, also for defense.
- Soft underbelly allows mother to nurse young
without harming them with her spines.
- Large nose and excellent sense of smell helps
to locate prey at night.
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