Four-toed Hedgehogヨツユビハリネズミ
Atelerix albiventrisLC— Least Concern
The four-toed hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) is a small, nocturnal insectivore native to the grasslands and open woodlands of central and eastern Africa. It gets its name from having only four toes on its hind feet, and curls into a spiny ball when threatened. Widely bred as a pet, it is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Four-toed Hedgehog (reference photo)
Species Data
- Classification
- Eulipotyphla / Erinaceidae Source
- Size
- About 21 cm (head-body length)
- Weight
- 250–600 g
- Lifespan
- Wild: about 3 years / captive: 4–6 years (record 10 years)
- Diet
- Omnivore Omnivorous, eating insects, larvae, snails, spiders, plant matter, and small vertebrates; highly resistant to venom, it also preys on scorpions and venomous snakes
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Distribution
- Native to central and eastern Africa, ranging from Gambia and Senegal in the west to Somalia in the east and south to Mozambique. It favors grasslands and open woodland, avoiding dense forest. Source
- Sources
- en.wikipedia.org www.tobezoo.com
Did You Know?
- Its name comes from having only four toes on its hind feet, unlike related hedgehog species which typically have five. Source
- When threatened, it curls into a tight ball and erects its spines for protection. Source
- It shows notable toxin tolerance and has been documented eating scorpions and venomous snakes. Source
Where to See This Species
Operating facilities registered on this site: Japan 2
Hirakawa ZooKagoshimaAbout a 20-minute walk from Goino Station on the JR Ibusuki-Makurazaki Line, or take a bus bound for Taniyama / Dobutsuen from Fukuhira Nokyo-mae to the last stop.
Hamamatsu Zoological GardensShizuokaOpened in 1950
Conservation Story
Conservation Status
Least Concern (LC)
Sources
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FAQ
- Why is it called the four-toed hedgehog?
- Its hind feet have only four toes, unlike related African hedgehog species, which typically have five. Source
- Is the four-toed hedgehog nocturnal?
- Yes. It is solitary and nocturnal, foraging widely at night and resting in burrows or brush during the day. Source
- How many operating facilities are registered here?
- Operating facilities registered on this site: Japan 2 Source
Books & gear
Source: en.wikipedia.org