How Many Types of Hedgehogs Are There?
Hedgehog types refers to the 17 recognized species of hedgehog classified in 5 genera (Atelerix, Erinaceus, Hemiechinus, Mesechinus, Paraechinus) within the family Erinaceidae. These small, spiny mammals are found across Europe, Asia, and Africa — with no native species in the Americas or Australia. Hedgehog colors vary significantly across these geographic regions. They occupy diverse habitats from Mediterranean scrubland to Central Asian deserts to sub-Saharan savannas. All recognized hedgehog species share a common evolutionary origin dating back 15 million years.
Of these 17 species, only one is commonly kept as a pet: the African pygmy hedgehog, a captive-bred hybrid. Understanding different hedgehog types helps you appreciate the diversity within this family. The European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is protected in many countries and illegal to keep as a pet in the UK and parts of Europe.
Hedgehogs are distant relatives of shrews and moles in the order Eulipotyphla, having changed little in 15 million years of evolution. The study of hedgehog types reveals remarkable evolutionary consistency across genera. Their spine-covered defense mechanism has remained remarkably unchanged throughout this time. There are several types of hedgehogs worth learning about beyond the popular African pygmy.
Some sources, including the UK wildlife charity HedgehogStreet, cite “about 19 species.” This reflects ongoing taxonomic debate rather than a definitive count. The IUCN Red List and Wikipedia recognize 17 species as the current consensus. Different types of hedgehogs have adapted to environments ranging from deserts to temperate forests.
For the complete care guide to the most common pet hedgehog, see our hedgehog care guide. Lifespan varies dramatically between wild and captive hedgehogs — see our lifespan guide for detailed data. For another small pet species comparison, see our tortoise species guide covering all tortoise types with pet suitability.
The 5 Hedgehog Genera and 17 Species
All 17 hedgehog species share the same basic body plan: a rounded body covered in spines, a pointed snout, short legs, and the ability to roll into a tight ball for defense. When comparing hedgehog types, the key differences lie in size, weight, native range, and habitat adaptation. The differences between species lie in size, weight, native range, and habitat adaptation.
The five genera reflect geographic divisions: Atelerix species are exclusively African, Erinaceus species European, Hemiechinus and Mesechinus occupy Central Asia, and Paraechinus spans North Africa through South Asia. Learning about various hedgehog types reveals how geography has shaped their evolution.
These hedgehog types range from 5 to 12 inches in length and from 150 to 1,200 grams in weight. Comparing hedgehog species helps identify which adaptations suit different environments.
| # | Species | Genus | Native Range | Size | Weight | Pet? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Four-toed / African Pygmy | Atelerix albiventris | Central Africa | 6-8 in | 300-600g | ✅ Primary pet species |
| 2 | North African Hedgehog | Atelerix algirus | North Africa, Spain | 8-12 in | 400-900g | ❌ Wild only |
| 3 | Southern African Hedgehog | Atelerix frontalis | Southern Africa | 7-9 in | 300-500g | ❌ Wild only |
| 4 | Somali Hedgehog | Atelerix sclateri | Somalia | 5-7 in | 200-350g | ❌ Wild only |
| 5 | European Hedgehog | Erinaceus europaeus | Europe, UK | 8-10 in | 600-1,200g | ❌ Protected/wild |
| 6 | Northern White-breasted | Erinaceus roumanicus | Eastern Europe | 8-12 in | 500-1,000g | ❌ Wild only |
| 7 | Southern White-breasted | Erinaceus concolor | Caucasus, Middle East | 8-10 in | 500-800g | ❌ Wild only |
| 8 | Long-eared Hedgehog | Hemiechinus auritus | Central Asia, Middle East | 5-7 in | 200-400g | ⚠️ Rarely kept |
| 9 | Indian Long-eared | Hemiechinus collaris | India, Pakistan | 6-8 in | 250-450g | ⚠️ Rarely kept |
| 10 | Ethiopian Hedgehog | Paraechinus aethiopicus | East Africa, Arabian Peninsula | 5-7 in | 200-400g | ❌ Wild only |
| 11 | Desert Hedgehog | Paraechinus aethiopicus (syn.) | North Africa, Middle East | 5-6 in | 150-350g | ⚠️ Occasionally kept |
| 12 | Brandt’s Hedgehog | Paraechinus hypomelas | Central Asia | 6-8 in | 250-500g | ❌ Wild only |
| 13 | Indian Hedgehog | Paraechinus micropus | India, Pakistan | 5-7 in | 200-400g | ❌ Wild only |
| 14 | Bare-bellied Hedgehog | Paraechinus nudiventris | India, Sri Lanka | 6-8 in | 300-500g | ❌ Wild only |
| 15 | Daurian Hedgehog | Mesechinus dauuricus | Russia, Mongolia, China | 6-8 in | 200-500g | ❌ Wild only |
| 16 | Hugh’s Hedgehog | Mesechinus hughi | Central China | 6-8 in | 250-500g | ❌ Wild only |
| 17 | Gaoligong Hedgehog | Mesechinus wogurai | China/Myanmar border | ~6 in | Unknown | ❌ Recently described |
⚠️ Taxonomy note: Some authorities classify the Desert hedgehog as a subspecies of the Ethiopian hedgehog rather than a separate species. Taxonomic debates among hedgehog types continue as new genetic research emerges. The Gaoligong hedgehog was described in 2018 — it has very limited published data. Weight and size ranges for wild species are estimates from available field studies. Hedgehog colors in newly described species like the Gaoligong remain undocumented.
The four-toed hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) is the wild ancestor of the African pygmy. It inhabits the savannas and grasslands of Central Africa.
African Pygmy Hedgehog — The Pet Standard
The African pygmy hedgehog is the only hedgehog species widely available as a pet worldwide. It is a hybrid of two wild African species — the four-toed hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) and the North African hedgehog (Atelerix algirus). Among all hedgehog types, this hybrid stands out as the only one with decades of captive breeding history. This hybrid has been bred in captivity for decades and does not exist in nature as a distinct species.
Adult pygmy hedgehogs weigh 300-600 grams and measure 6-8 inches long, with 5,000-7,000 individual quills that are not barbed and do not detach easily.
In captivity, they live 4-7 years with proper care, compared to 2-4 years in the wild. The longest recorded pygmy hedgehog lifespan in captivity is 10 years, though this is exceptional. They are nocturnal, solitary animals with gentle temperaments when socialized from a young age. Hedgehog colors in captive populations are more diverse than in wild populations due to selective breeding.
Their native habitat is the savannas and grasslands of sub-Saharan Africa, where temperatures range from 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. This is why pet hedgehogs need supplemental heating in most homes — cold temperatures below 72 degrees Fahrenheit can trigger a hibernation attempt, which is fatal for captive-bred animals. Natural hedgehog colors in the wild tend toward muted tones for camouflage.
The temperature requirement is the single most misunderstood aspect of pygmy hedgehog care — many new owners underestimate how warm these animals need to be. Among pet hedgehog species, temperature tolerance varies significantly between wild and captive-bred hedgehog types, leading to health emergencies within the first few weeks.
Temperature is critical for pygmy hedgehogs. See our cage setup guide for proper heating equipment. Pygmy hedgehogs are insectivores — see our diet guide for complete nutrition recommendations.
Wild Hedgehog Species Worth Knowing
While the pygmy hedgehog dominates the pet world, several wild species are worth understanding for their unique adaptations and ecological roles. Most hedgehog types remain wild animals not suited for captivity.
European Hedgehog
The European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is the most recognizable species — found across Europe and the UK. It represents one of the most well-studied hedgehog types in the wild. It is the largest of all hedgehog species, weighing up to 1,200 grams and reaching 10 inches in length. Its dense, dark spines and broad body shape make it the classic “hedgehog” image most people picture. European hedgehog colors are predominantly brown and cream with limited variation.
European hedgehogs are a protected species in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. It is illegal to capture, keep, or sell them as pets. If you find an injured European hedgehog, contact a local wildlife rescue instead of attempting to keep it.
The IUCN classifies this species as Near Threatened. Populations have declined 30-50 percent across Europe in the last decade due to habitat loss, road traffic, and pesticide exposure.
The UK alone has lost an estimated 30 percent of its hedgehog population since the year 2000. Despite their bulk, European hedgehogs can swim, climb, and run up to 4 mph. The UK charity HedgehogStreet is dedicated entirely to this species’ conservation, running garden monitoring programs and habitat restoration projects across the country.
European hedgehogs hibernate from October through March for 4-7 months — their body temperature drops to match ambient temperature and heart rate slows from 190 to just 20 beats per minute. This natural hibernation cycle is specific to the European species; pygmy hedgehogs do not have this ability. Hibernation behavior distinguishes European hedgehog species from their African relatives.
Long-eared Hedgehog
The long-eared hedgehog (Hemiechinus auritus) ranges from Central Asia to the Middle East. It is named for its prominent ears, which measure 1-1.5 inches long. These large ears serve as heat dissipation organs in its arid native environment.
At 5-7 inches and 200-400 grams, the long-eared hedgehog is smaller than the European species. It has lighter spines and a more active temperament — it is more likely to run or attack than to roll into a ball when threatened. This behavioral difference sets it apart from most other hedgehog types. Among all hedgehog species, the long-eared is uniquely adapted to arid environments.
This species is occasionally kept by exotic pet enthusiasts but is rarely available in the commercial pet trade. It is highly adaptable to arid environments and can survive with limited water access. The long-eared hedgehog is the closest alternative to the African pygmy for experienced keepers, though it remains a niche choice.
Indian Hedgehog
The Indian hedgehog (Paraechinus micropus) inhabits dry, rocky areas across India and Pakistan. It measures 5-7 inches and weighs 200-400 grams, making it similar in size to the African pygmy. Understanding hedgehog species distribution across India and Pakistan reveals important ecological patterns.
Indian hedgehogs live in burrows and rock crevices, foraging nocturnally for insects, small vertebrates, and eggs. They occasionally appear in the Indian exotic pet market, though their captive care requirements are far less studied than the African pygmy.
Desert Hedgehog
The desert hedgehog (Paraechinus aethiopicus) is adapted to extreme desert environments across North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It is one of the smallest species at 5-6 inches and 150-350 grams.
Its fewer, lighter spines are built for heat dissipation rather than defense. Desert hedgehog colors tend to be lighter than those of forest-dwelling species. Unlike most hedgehog species, the desert hedgehog is more likely to flee or ram attackers than to roll up — with fewer spines, the rolling defense is less effective as a survival strategy.
Desert hedgehogs are occasionally kept in Middle Eastern countries but remain rare in the Western pet trade. Their small size and unique appearance make them interesting to study, but reliable captive care data is limited compared to the African pygmy.
Hedgehog Colors and Variations
Pygmy hedgehogs display a wide range of color varieties. Color is a cosmetic trait only — it does not affect health, temperament, or care requirements. Different hedgehog types may display distinct color patterns in their natural habitats. The genetics follow simple dominant and recessive patterns, similar to other domestic animal color inheritance. Common hedgehog colors include salt and pepper, dark grey, brown, and cinnamon.
| Color Category | Description | Rarity | Eye Color |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salt & Pepper | Black spines with white bands, light face | Most common | Black |
| Dark Grey | Near-black spines, very little banding | Common | Black |
| Brown | Brown-tipped spines, warm tones | Common | Black |
| Cinnamon | Light brown or tan spines, brown nose | Common | Black |
| Algerian | Cream or orange face mask, lighter spines | Uncommon | Black or dark ruby |
| Albino | Pure white spines, pink eyes, pink nose | Rare | Ruby or pink |
| Leucistic | Cream or white spines, dark eyes, dark nose | Rare | Dark |
| Pinto | Patches of white spines mixed with colored | Uncommon | Black |
| Blonde | Very light tan, pale face | Uncommon | Black or ruby |
Salt and pepper is the wild type — the coloration closest to natural wild African hedgehogs. Among domesticated hedgehog types, this color provides the best camouflage in their native savanna environment. Breeders track hedgehog colors using established genetic models to predict offspring coloration. Color inheritance follows similar patterns to other small pet breeding — see our teddy bear hamster breed guide for another example of small mammal color genetics. Rare hedgehog colors like albino and leucistic are prized by collectors but require no special care.
Albino and leucistic hedgehogs may be slightly more sensitive to bright light due to reduced pigmentation. New hedgehog colors continue to emerge as breeders combine different genetic lines.
The pinto pattern is the most visually striking, with patches of white spines mixed into the base color. No two pinto hedgehogs look exactly alike — the pattern is unique to each individual. This makes pinto hedgehogs popular among breeders and collectors. The most common hedgehog colors provide natural camouflage in savanna environments.
Color terminology varies by region — European breeders often use different names than American breeders for the same genetic variations. A “chocolate” in the US may be called “brown” in Europe. Understanding hedgehog colors terminology helps you communicate effectively with breeders.
Color preference is subjective — the best hedgehog for any owner is one with a calm temperament, regardless of appearance. Hedgehog colors can shift slightly as animals mature, making juvenile color assessments less reliable.
Choosing the Right Hedgehog Type
For 99 percent of prospective owners, the African pygmy is the only realistic choice. The decision among hedgehog types is straightforward for most prospective keepers. They are the only species with established captive breeding programs, available care information, and commercial supplies including specialized food, cages, heating equipment, and exercise wheels.
How to Choose a Hedgehog in 4 Steps
- Verify the species is a captive-bred African pygmy. Ask the breeder for lineage documentation. Any hedgehog sold as wild-caught or without breeding records should be avoided — wild species carry parasites and lack established care protocols.
- Schedule a handling visit. Handle at least three different animals. Observe which one uncurls within 30-60 seconds of gentle handling and begins exploring your hands. A well-socialized hedgehog relaxes its spines rather than staying tightly balled.
- Check the hedgehog age. Six to eight weeks is ideal — old enough to be weaned, young enough to bond. Avoid animals younger than 6 weeks, as they may not be fully weaned and are susceptible to stress-related illness.
- Inspect health indicators. Clear eyes, clean ears, no visible quill loss or skin lesions, and a rounded body shape indicate good health. Avoid hedgehogs that are lethargic, underweight, or show signs of respiratory distress.
Wild-caught hedgehog species such as European, long-eared, Indian, and desert hedgehogs are not suitable as pets. They require specific wild diets, carry parasites, and are protected in their native ranges.
Purchasing any hedgehog that is not a captive-bred African pygmy is strongly discouraged. All domesticated hedgehog species require specialized care that differs significantly from wild counterparts. European hedgehogs are specifically protected in the UK — keeping one is a criminal offense.
If you encounter a non-African pygmy for sale, it is either mislabeled or illegally sourced. Reputable breeders only sell captive-bred pygmy hedgehogs. Popular hedgehog colors like pinto are unique to each individual animal.
Temperament Selection
When choosing a hedgehog, handle multiple animals before deciding. Hedgehog colors should not influence your selection — temperament is the priority. Look for one that uncurls within 30-60 seconds of gentle handling. A calm hedgehog will relax its spines and begin exploring your hands rather than staying tightly balled.
Avoid hedgehogs that bite defensively — this is different from normal tasting or anointing behavior. Tasting involves licking or gently nibbling, while anointing is the characteristic behavior of chewing on new scents and spreading saliva on their spines.
Age Considerations
Six to eight weeks old is the ideal age for a new hedgehog. At this age, they are old enough to be weaned and young enough to bond easily with their new owner. Adult hedgehogs can bond with patient owners, but the process takes significantly longer.
Avoid purchasing hedgehogs younger than 6 weeks — they may not be fully weaned and are more susceptible to stress-related illness. Breeders who sell hedgehogs before 6 weeks should be questioned about their practices.
Once you have chosen your hedgehog, you will need the right enclosure. See our cage guide for recommendations. Diet is also critical for your new hedgehog — see our food guide for complete nutrition advice.
Hedgehog Types FAQ
The following questions cover the most common inquiries about different hedgehog types and their suitability as pets.
What Are the 17 Species of Hedgehogs?
The 17 species are classified in 5 genera: Atelerix (4 African species), Erinaceus (3 European), Hemiechinus (2 Central Asian), Mesechinus (3 Russian/Chinese), and Paraechinus (5 North African to South Asian). See the comparison table above for each species’ range, size, and pet suitability.
What Is the Most Common Type of Hedgehog?
The African pygmy is the most common pet hedgehog worldwide. In the wild, the European hedgehog is the most widespread species, found across Europe, the UK, Scandinavia, and parts of Russia. European hedgehogs are protected in many countries and cannot legally be kept as pets.
What Is the Best Type of Hedgehog for a Pet?
The African pygmy is the best — and really the only — type of hedgehog suitable as a pet. They have been bred in captivity for decades with well-documented care requirements. Hedgehog colors do not influence which type is best for a pet. No other hedgehog species has the established care infrastructure that pygmy hedgehogs enjoy.
How Many Different Hedgehogs Are There?
There are 17 recognized species of hedgehog worldwide, found across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Some sources cite 18-19 species due to taxonomic debate — the Gaoligong hedgehog was described as recently as 2018. Only one of these 17 species is commonly kept as a pet.