What is a hedgehog
What is a hedgehog
A hedgehog is a small, nocturnal, insectivorous (sometimes almost omnivorous) mammal of the family Erinaceidae, with 17 species in 5 genera.
The hedgehog is a smaller mammal, walking very close to the ground on four long and thin legs. They commonly have a "tear drop" shape when viewed from the top and sides. Their backs and the tops of their heads are completely covered in short quills. They can completely roll into a ball to protect themselves from predators. While these quills do prick tender hands, they have no venom, are not barbed, and are not projectile in any way. Their face is elongated, almost like a shrews, with beady black eyes and a adorable button nose at the end. They have 36-44 teeth.
One species, The "African Pygmy", is domesticated. It's actually a hybrid of the Whitebellied hedgehog and the North African hedgehog. They typically weigh 1/2 pound to 1 1/2 pounds, and are adored as exotic pets due to the fact they are considered "relatively low maintenance". They come in a wide variety (135 colors, with dilutes being developed).