Habitat: Hedgehogs like so-called fringe areas, which are characterised by a mosaic of vegetation with shrubs, trees and open areas such as grasslands. The dense vegetation provides cover in case of danger and is suitable for making a place to sleep, while the more open areas are used for foraging.

Appearance: The Western European hedgehog is found in Western Europe as far south as Spain, Portugal and Italy. In Eastern Europe, the Eastern European hedgehog takes the place of the Western European hedgehog. However, both species overlap in Eastern Europe, in and around the Czech Republic.

Pairing season: The hedgehog’s reproductive period begins shortly after hibernation (October to November to March to April) and continues until July. The young are raised in a spacious dome-shaped nest made of leaves. The male does not participate in building the nest or caring for the young. 4 to 7 young.

Characteristics: Length 20-30 cm, small tail, weight 800-1200 grams, age 8 years.

Food: Hedgehogs feed mainly on small invertebrates, such as beetles, earthworms, snails and caterpillars. They also eat small vertebrates, such as young mice, amphibians and birds. But they also eat carrion, plant material and all kinds of food left behind by humans. Hedgehogs are also very fond of eggs.