Post by Lilith on Nov 23, 2016 23:40:15 GMT
General hedgehog
knowledge
knowledge
AFRICAN PYGMY HEDGEHOG 101
African pygmy hedgehogs (also known as four toed hedgehogs) are an exotic breed. They have very specific care requirements that need to be met for a good quality of life. First thing to remember is that pygmy hedgehogs are illegal in certain provinces and states. Before you purchase one be sure to check on your areas laws regarding the species. A common misconception about the species is that they fall into the rodent category which is untrue. Rodents tend to chew a lot due to their ever growing teeth. Hedgehogs however tend to seldom chew on anything. They are part of the Erinaceidae family and are actually closer related to the gymnure. Erinaceidaes are generally shrew-like in appearance, being characterised by their long snout and short tail. They are native to central and eastern Africa and are usually found in grassy, open woodland areas. Being prey animals, the hedgehog shies away from unsheltered spaces and prefers a little bit of clutter.
African pygmy hedgehogs come in a large assortment of colours and patterns and can be bred to achieve desirable colouration. However breeding is not for the faint of heart and should not be attempted by your average owner. If you wish to breed it is highly suggested that you make sure to have a mentor who can walk you through the process, as well as emergency funds prepared just in case; even if you are only breeding one litter. Hedgehog moms are often very temperamental about being viewed or handled and can cannibalise her babies if she feels threatened.
Hedgehogs are covered in sharp spines known as quills. Despite the physical similarities hedgehogs and porcupines are vastly different. While porcupines have barbed quills that can come out of their skin, a hedgehogs quills are embedded and non-barbed. That being said, that doesn't mean they aren't dangerous. A hedgehogs quills are its primary source of defence. Any hog enthusiast will likely have many stories of bad stab wounds. Despite that, they really do make wonderful pets that can grow to be incredibly loving and worth the effort. Just be aware of their quills,and understand that these pets are not the best suited for children. Kids tend to become fairly nervous after their first good poke, and there have been many cases of hedgehogs being disowned because the child that wanted it became afraid of the damage they can do. If you opt to get a hedgehog for your young child, be prepared to do most of of the work. Unfortunately they aren't as simple to care for as a hamster or a goldfish.
Speaking of quills, African pygmy hedgehogs go through a process a couple times in their lifetime known as quilling. Quilling is the equivalent of a toddler loosing baby teeth. Essentially they loose their small, sharp quills in subtle patches. They are replaced by longer, thicker quills. During this time, you may notice your hedgehog is relatively miserable and grouchy. This is entirely normal and shouldn't be a reason for concern. giving your hedgehog an oatmeal bath can help remove some of the discomfort, and in the event that you see some dry skin a little bit of coconut oil does wonders.
Last edit: 12/28/16
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