Hedgehogs are fascinating creatures that can be found in the wild and as pets. Living in the wild, they have a lifespan of around 2-5 years. But in captivity, they live around five years, with some reaching an age of up to 8 years or more. What determines how long they live is primarily determined by their environment, care, and diet. In this post, we’ll look at some things that affect hedgehog lifespan and what you can do to help them live a long, healthy life.
How long is the life span of a hedgehog?
Hedgehogs in the wild have a shorter lifespan than hedgehogs kept as pets. This is because they are more likely to contract diseases and parasites and often don’t have access to the same level of care and nutrition. To help wild hedgehogs, it’s important to provide them with a safe environment and access to water and possibly even food. You can also contact your local wildlife rehabilitation center if you find an injured or orphaned hedgehog to make sure it gets a shot at survival!
Hedgehogs as pets
If you’re thinking about keeping a hedgehog as a pet, there are a few things you need to know. First of all, make sure that keeping a hedgehog is legal where you live! In most US states and also in other countries, there are limitations when it comes to the species and overall possibility of owning these tiny creatures. Ensure that you have the correct legal information, and you are also able to provide them with the proper care and life in captivity that is humane and fits their biology. Even though they are adorable, they can be quite challenging as pets and not the best fit for children! One of the reasons is their prickliness, and depending on their personality, they might not want to get too close to you!
Hedgehogs are nocturnal animals, so they sleep during the day and are active at night. They also need a diet that consists mainly of insects, as well as a source of clean water. We wrote more about what hedgehogs eat here.
Veterinarian care
Hedgehogs also need a place to hide and sleep during the day, so it’s essential to provide them with a hedgehog-safe environment. When hedgehogs are kept as pets and given the proper care, they can live for up to eight years or more. Like any other pet, it is crucial to have them properly examined at least once a year by a qualified veterinarian to ensure their health and the right care.
Threats to a hedgehog’s life
No matter where hedgehogs live, some things will shorten their lifespan. One of the biggest threats to hedgehogs is road traffic. Cars are one of the leading causes of death for hedgehogs, so it’s vital to be careful when driving near areas where they live. If you see a hedgehog on the road, slow down and try to avoid hitting it if possible, and it doesn’t put you or other people at risk.
Other threats to hedgehogs include predators, such as foxes, dogs, and cats. Hedgehogs can also contract diseases from other animals, so keeping them away from sick animals is crucial to make sure that they can stay alive as long as possible.
Potential dangers
You can do a few things to help hedgehogs live a long and healthy life. First, if you live in an area where you can find hedgehogs, ensure your yard is safe by removing any potential dangers, such as chemicals, sharp objects, and loose fencing. If you have a cat or dog, ensure they stay away from wildlife. Finally, if you find a hedgehog that appears to be sick or injured, contact your local wildlife rehabilitation center for help.
Robot lawn mowers
Another real danger to hedgehogs is robot lawn mowers! There are a lot of hedgehogs that get gravely injured or even killed by these devices that most people are not even aware of pose a risk for wildlife!
By following these tips, you can help hedgehogs live a long and healthy life, whether they are in the wild or living as your pet. Do you have any other tips for hedgehog care? Please share them in the comments below!
