Common Name: Hugh’s Hedgehog

Scientific Name:

Habitat:

Hugh’s Hedgehog is primarily found in diverse habitats across temperate regions. These small mammals thrive in forests, grasslands, and urban environments, demonstrating remarkable adaptability. They are commonly located in areas with plenty of ground cover, such as shrubs and underbrush, providing them with essential shelter and foraging opportunities.

Physical Characteristics:

Hugh’s Hedgehog typically measures between 20 to 30 cm in length and weighs around 600 to 1200 grams. Its distinctive spiny coat features varying shades of brown and gray, helping it blend seamlessly into its surroundings. One notable feature is the hedgehog’s elongated snout, which aids in foraging for insects and other small invertebrates. Additionally, their small, rounded ears contribute to their keen sense of hearing.

Behavior:

This species is primarily nocturnal, meaning it is most active during the night. Hugh’s Hedgehog utilizes a variety of vocalizations to communicate with fellow hedgehogs, especially during mating season. They are known for their defensive behavior of curling into a tight ball when threatened, an instinctive reaction that protects them from predators.

Diet:

Hugh’s Hedgehog is an insectivorous creature, primarily feeding on insects, worms, and other small invertebrates. Their diet may also include fruits and vegetables, making them opportunistic feeders. This adaptability in feeding habits plays a crucial role in their survival, especially in varying ecological niches.

Reproduction:

Hugh’s Hedgehog breeds once a year, typically during the spring months. Following a gestation period of about 35 days, females give birth to a litter of up to five offspring. The young hedgehogs are born with soft spines and are dependent on their mothers for the first few weeks of life. Notably, maternal care involves extensive grooming and protection from potential threats.

Conservation Status:

The current conservation status of Hugh’s Hedgehog is listed as vulnerable due to habitat loss, road mortality, and predation by domestic animals. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure the protection of this species and its natural habitats.

Interesting Facts:

Hugh’s Hedgehog is known for its astounding memory, which helps it navigate through its environment and locate food sources effectively. Additionally, these hedgehogs can consume up to 200 grams of insects in one night, highlighting their role as beneficial pest controllers.

Role in Ecosystem:

In the ecosystem, Hugh’s Hedgehog plays a critical role as both predator and prey. By consuming numerous insects, they assist in controlling pest populations, thereby maintaining ecological balance. Furthermore, their presence attracts various predators, contributing to the food web dynamics in their habitats.