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).

 

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.