There are 17 species of hedgehog in five genera found throughout parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa, and in New Zealand by introduction. There are no hedgehogs native to Australia and no living species native to the Americas. However, the extinct genus Amphechinus was once present in North America.

Feb 15, 2025 · hedgehog, (subfamily Erinaceinae), any of 15 Old World species of insectivores possessing several thousand short, smooth spines. Most species weigh under 700 grams (1.5 pounds), but the common western European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) can grow to …

Hedgehogs fall under the Erinaceidae family within the broader Eulipotyphla order, shared with shrews and moles. Within Erinaceidae are five distinct genera that diversely classify these creatures based on features and geography. The Erinaceus genus includes larger, long-spined 'Old World' hedgehogs found across Europe, Asia, and Africa.

The twenty-four extant species of Erinaceidae are divided into two subfamilies: Erinaceinae, containing sixteen hedgehog species in five genera, and Galericinae, containing eight gymnure species in five genera.

Nov 15, 2024 · Currently, 17 confirmed species of hedgehogs are classified under five genera. Depending on the species, hedgehogs are around 4 to 12 in (10 to 30 cm) long. Hedgehogs are small mammals with short, powerful limbs and large feet equipped with claws.

Nov 6, 2020 · There are 17 recognized species of hedgehog that belong to five different genera. Hedgehogs are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, although they have been introduced to New Zealand. There are no hedgehogs found in the Americas. Let’s take …

Sep 30, 2024 · Erinaceus is a genus that hedgehogs are included under, coming from the Latin word that simply means “hedgehog.” The root of the word – khḗr – is linked to the Greek word for hedgehog, paired with the root “ǵʰer,” which means “to be bristly.”

Nov 25, 2020 · There are five genera of hedgehogs found across Asia, Africa, Europe, and New Zealand; these five genera have a total of seventeen hedgehog species. Let’s take a quick look at the five genera and the seventeen species under them. Atelerix is a genus of hedgehogs. Four species are found under this genus, and all four are native to Africa.

Hedgehogs are unique, spiny mammals known for their compact bodies, small faces, and characteristic quills. Found throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa, these animals have adapted to various habitats, from forests and deserts to grasslands and gardens.

Feb 10, 2024 · We will go over the different types of hedgehogs in this comprehensive guide so you can discover their unique physical characteristics, where to find them, and some interesting trivia. Discover the different breeds of hedgehogs on this page, covering both domesticated breeds and wild species.