Pygmy Hedgehog for sale in the Netherlands

African pygmy hedgehogs: behaviour and suitability

Pygmy hedgehogs sleep by day and actively seek food at night. They roll up when threatened and generally do not tolerate conspecifics. Repeatedly waking them for human interaction disrupts their rhythm. Always assess the actual animal and, when a trade label covers several species, verify the scientific name before acquisition. Age, sex, health and previous housing can noticeably influence behaviour.

Care and housing

Keep daytime temperature at 24–27 °C and night temperature around 20 °C, always above 18 °C and below 30 °C. Provide level floor space, a safe solid wheel, hides, draught-free ventilation and varied appropriate food including insects. Set up the complete enclosure before the animal arrives and record relevant values and daily behaviour. A sudden change in appetite, activity, breathing, posture or droppings calls for a check of the environment and, where needed, knowledgeable help.

Health and responsible acquisition

When transferred, ask for proof that the animal falls under transitional law and retain that proof. Check weight, skin, feet, teeth and stable movement. Have an existing animal checked regularly by a veterinarian. Ask the seller about age, origin, current care and known health problems, and ensure any documents belong to the animal offered. Never choose on colour, size or price alone, and identify a knowledgeable veterinarian or other species expert before urgent problems arise.