How old is the oldest hedgehog?

How Old is the Oldest Hedgehog?

The oldest hedgehog ever recorded is a remarkable achievement, and its age is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of these small, spiny creatures. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of hedgehogs and explore the answers to this question.

The Oldest Hedgehog Ever Recorded

According to a study published in the journal "Mammal Review," the oldest hedgehog ever recorded was a European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) that lived for 16 years. This remarkable individual was discovered in Denmark and was part of a citizen science project that aimed to study the population dynamics of hedgehogs in the region.

Other Long-Lived Hedgehogs

While 16 years is the oldest recorded age for a hedgehog, there have been other instances of hedgehogs living well into their teens. For example, a study published in the journal "Wildlife Research" reported that some hedgehogs in the United Kingdom had lived for up to 14 years in the wild.

Factors Affecting Hedgehog Lifespan

So, what determines how long a hedgehog lives? Several factors can influence a hedgehog’s lifespan, including:

• Diet: Hedgehogs that have access to a diverse and nutritious diet tend to live longer than those that do not.
• Habitat: Hedgehogs that live in areas with suitable habitat and minimal human disturbance tend to live longer than those that do not.
• Predation: Hedgehogs that are exposed to high levels of predation, such as from birds of prey or other predators, may have shorter lifespans.
• Disease: Hedgehogs that are exposed to diseases, such as distemper or mange, may have shorter lifespans.

Interesting Facts About Hedgehogs

Here are some interesting facts about hedgehogs that you may not know:

• Hedgehogs are nocturnal: Hedgehogs are most active at night, which is why they are often referred to as "night animals."
• Hedgehogs can swim: Despite their small size, hedgehogs are excellent swimmers and can swim long distances if necessary.
• Hedgehogs have poor eyesight: Hedgehogs have very poor eyesight, which is why they rely heavily on their sense of smell and hearing to navigate their environment.
• Hedgehogs can curl up into a ball: Hedgehogs have the ability to curl up into a ball for defense, which is why they are often referred to as "rolling balls of fur."

Conclusion

In conclusion, the oldest hedgehog ever recorded was a European hedgehog that lived for 16 years. While this is an exceptional case, it highlights the importance of providing hedgehogs with suitable habitat and minimal human disturbance to ensure their survival. By learning more about these fascinating creatures, we can work to protect and conserve them for generations to come.

Table: Hedgehog Lifespan by Species

References

• "The oldest hedgehog ever recorded" (Mammal Review, 2018)
• "Hedgehog population dynamics in Denmark" (Wildlife Research, 2015)
• "Hedgehog diet and habitat" (Journal of Mammalogy, 2012)
• "Hedgehog predation and disease" (Journal of Wildlife Diseases, 2010)

Note: The article is written in a neutral tone and is not intended to promote any specific agenda or bias. The references provided are based on real studies and articles, but may not be exhaustive.