Long-eared Hedgehog
From Freepedia
| Long-eared hedgehog | ||||||||||||||
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| Image:Long Eared hedgehog.jpg Long-eared hedgehog in captivity in Leningrad Zoo. Photo by I.V.Korneev | ||||||||||||||
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| Hemiechinus auritus (Gmelin,SG, 1770) |
The Long-eared hedgehog Hemiechinus auritus is a species of hedgehog native to Central Asian countries and the Caucasus mountains. It is smaller than Western European hedgehog: it weighs at most 500 grams (around 200 on average), and much faster. It is less likely to cuddle when approach by enemies and tries to outrun or jump and hurt his foe with his relatively short needles. Due to its lifestyle, it has less needle protection and shorter needles.
Long-eared hedgehog uses grass nests as shelter. Has numerous enemies. Hibernates from late October to March.
Since long-eared hedgehogs are naturally parasite prone and can carry diseases as bad as plague, it is highly recommended that, if used as pet, they be purchased from a respected dealer due to a large amount of contraband from Central Asian countries.
