Atelerix algirus (Lereboullet, 1842)

Scientific Identity and Baseline Comparison

The North African hedgehog, scientifically named Atelerix algirus, closely resembles the European hedgehog but has several clear differences.

Size and Limb Characteristics

It is generally smaller than the European hedgehog, growing 20 to 25 cm (7.9 to 9.8 in) long and reaching a maximum weight of 650 grams. It is larger than other African hedgehog species, with a longer snout and longer legs that allow it to run faster.

Soft Tissue Coloration

Its face is pale, typically white, while its head and legs are brown. The color of its underbelly varies, and is most often either brown or white.

Ear and Spine Features

It has large, highly visible ears on its head. Its body is covered in soft spines, which are mostly white with darker bands.

Distinguishing Head Trait

Its most distinct feature separating it from similar close relatives is the complete lack of spines on the crown of the head, meaning it does not have the characteristic spine "widow's peak" seen in related species.

Associated Ectoparasite

This species is commonly infested by the hedgehog flea subspecies Archaeopsylla erinacei maura.

Habitat Research Status and Forest Habitat

Very little is confirmed about the preferred habitat of the North African hedgehog. It has been recorded in Mediterranean conifer and mixed forest climates, which occur in southern mountainous regions of Spain and northern Africa.

Geographic Distribution Range

In northern Africa, its range extends from Morocco to Libya, but it cannot survive in the dry desert regions surrounding this range. It also lives in other warm regions, including the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands, where it is often found in gardens and parks.

Local Extirpation Status

It is no longer found in the wild in France (it is extirpated there).

Gestation and Breeding Cycle

For the North African hedgehog, the gestation period lasts 30 to 40 days, and each litter contains between three and 10 hoglets. Females often produce two litters per breeding season, which runs from October to March.

Juvenile Spine Development

Hoglets are born with hairless, pinkish skin and small soft spines. These initial soft spines are shed around four weeks of age, when the hedgehog grows its final set of harder, stiffer quills.

Newborn Weight and Reproductive Traits

Newborn hoglets generally weigh between 12 and 20 grams. This species reaches sexual maturity at 8 to 10 weeks of age, and does not mate for life — it does not form long-term pair bonds.