Hedgehogs are one of the most beloved small animals in the world. Many people enjoy their unique personalities, their spiky appearance, and their cute noises. But just how big do hedgehogs actually get? In this article, we will answer that question by looking at the size of different types of hedgehogs, factors that can influence size, and more. So if you’re wondering about the size of your own pet hedgehog or just curious about these little mammals in general, read on to discover all you need to know!
How Big Do Hedgehogs Get?
The size of a hedgehog can vary greatly depending on the species. The most common pet hedgehog species, the African Pygmy Hedgehog, typically grows to be about 6-8 inches long and weigh between 12-24 ounces. Some other species, such as the European Hedgehog, can grow even bigger, reaching up to 18 inches in length and weighing over 4 pounds.
Factors That Influence Size:
- Species: Each type of hedgehog has its own range of average sizes.
- Age: Young hedgehogs tend to be smaller than adults.
- Environment: Hedgehogs that are well cared for may reach their full potential size while those living in less ideal environments will not reach their full height.
Understanding the Average Size of a Full-Grown Hedgehog
Hedgehogs are small mammals that belong to the family Erinaceidae. They have been domesticated for centuries and are popular pets around the world. As such, many people are interested in knowing the average size of a full-grown hedgehog.
Adult Hedgehog Size
Full-grown hedgehogs typically measure between 4 and 10 inches long and weigh anywhere from 8 ounces to 1.5 pounds. The females tend to be slightly larger than males, with an adult size range of 5 to 9 inches long and weighing up to 2 pounds. This makes them one of the smaller mammal species in comparison to other animals like cats or dogs.
Factors That Affect Hedgehog Size
There are a few factors that can affect the size of an adult hedgehog, including:
- Genetics: Some breeds of hedgehog can grow bigger than others due to genetic differences.
- Diet: A healthy diet is essential for any pet – especially when it comes to their growth potential. A balanced diet rich in protein will help ensure your hedgie grows as big as they should.
- Environment: The environment where hedgehogs live can also play a role in their growth potential. For example, those living in warmer climates may reach larger sizes than those living in cooler areas.
Average Size of Pet Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs are small, spiny mammals that make wonderful pets. They have gained popularity in recent years due to their endearing personalities and unique appearance. While wild hedgehogs vary in size, pet hedgehogs typically measure between 5-9 inches long.
Weight
The average weight of a pet hedgehog is 4-6 ounces. However, some smaller breeds can weigh as little as 2 ounces while larger breeds may reach up to 10 ounces.
Size Variations by Breed
There are several different breeds of hedgehog available as pets, each with its own unique size range. The African Pygmy Hedgehog is one of the smallest at just 5 inches long and weighing only 2-4 ounces. On the other hand, the European or White Bellied Hedgehog can grow up to 9 inches long and 10 ounces in weight.
- African Pygmy Hedgehog: 5 inches long; 2 – 4 oz
- European/White Bellied Hedgehog: 7 – 9 inches long; 6 – 10 oz
- Chinese Long Eared Hedgehog: 7 – 8 inches long; 7 – 12 oz
Pros of Having a Pet Hedgehog
- Hedgehogs are low maintenance pets that require minimal attention and care.
- They are quiet, making them great for people who live in apartments or small spaces.
- Hedgehogs can be trained to use a litter box or other bathroom area, which makes cleaning up after them very easy.
- These animals have an interesting personality and can become quite attached to their owners.
Cons of Having a Pet Hedgehog
- It’s important to understand that hedgehogs need more than just food and water. They also need socialization, exercise and enrichment activities.
- Since they are nocturnal animals, they may wake you up at night with their squeaks and noises.
- Hedgehogs require special diets that may not fit into everyone’s budget.
- Their quills can make them difficult to handle for some people.
- Lastly, it is illegal to own a hedgehog in certain states so make sure you check your local laws before getting one!
Conclusion
In conclusion, hedgehogs can be a great pet for those looking for a small, low-maintenance animal. They typically grow to between 5 and 9 inches long, with some exceptions reaching up to 12 inches at full size. While smaller than most domesticated animals, they are still far from the smallest pet option out there. Additionally, their unique personalities and need for social interaction make them a fun companion for all types of owners. With proper care and attention, these lovable creatures can bring joy into any home.
