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Erinaceus

The Erinaceus genus contains four species of hedgehog, including those that live in Britain.

Erinaceus includes the Western European hedgehog. These are the native hedgehogs that are found in Britain’s fields, gardens and hedgerows. As well as this, they roam parts of Europe, and have been introduced into New Zealand.

Characteristics:

A faintly visible central parting of the spines at the crown of the head, short ears and a well-developed big toe on the hind foot. In addition, colouration can vary from dark brown through to pale, or even albino variations.

Western European hedgehogs are members of Erinaceus. Image by Chris Groves.

Western European hedgehogs are members of Erinaceus. Image by Chris Groves.

Species:

Scientific Name Common Name Found in
E. europeaus Western European hedgehog Britain, Ireland, southern Scandinavia, Western Europe, New Zealand*
E. concolor Eastern European hedgehog Eastern Europe
E. amurensis Chinese hedgehog China and the Korean Penisular

*introduced

Hedgehog