Weight
gr
Size
cm
Lifespan
years
Scientific name: Erinaceus Europaeus
Family: Erinaceidae
Genus: Erinaceus
Distribution/habitat : the European hedgehog is found across much of Western and Central Europe — from the United Kingdom to western Russia. It inhabits gardens, hedgerows, meadows, open woodlands, forest edges, and some urban parks. This small mammal thrives in cultivated and semi-natural areas, provided it finds shelter and food. It avoids very open landscapes and dense forests where foraging becomes difficult.
Diet: nocturnal and insectivorous, the hedgehog feeds mainly on insects, slugs, snails, worms, and other small invertebrates, sometimes complemented by fruit and mushrooms. By preying on these tiny creatures, it helps naturally regulate garden pests.
Weight: 400 to 1200 g depending on age and season.
Length: 20 to 30 cm including tail.
Lifespan: 3 to 7 years in the wild, up to 10 years in captivity.
Conservation status: Near Threatened (IUCN)
Individuals: difficult to estimate precisely, but populations are declining in several Western European countries due to habitat loss, road traffic, pesticide use, and the fragmentation of natural areas.
Demographic trend: declining, due to habitat loss, road traffic, pesticide use, and fragmentation of natural spaces — all calling for increased protection measures.
