Hedgehogs are a small, insectivorous (insect eating) mammal that can be found throughout the world. They are native to England, Europe, Africa and Asia. The hedgehog that is now kept as a pet in North America is the Pygmy Hedgehog from Central Africa.

 Since there are no native species of hedgehog in either Canada or the United States, many people still mistake the domestic hedgehog for the porcupine - an entirely different and unrelated animal. While porcupine quills are extremely sharp, barbed and very dangerous, the hedgehog quill is smooth and not nearly as sharp. Petting a friendly hedgehog can be compared to petting a hairbrush - bristly, not prickly.

The average African Pygmy Hedgehog weighs about  ½ to 1 ¼ pounds and is 5 to 8 inches long - about the size of a Guinea Pig. There are some that will grow to as much as 1 ¾ to 2 pounds (without being fat) while others are as little as 6 or 7 ounces. 
Your pet should be kept indoors at normal room temperature (65 to 80*F).

The following are a few basic facts about Hedgehogs:

*  Hedgehogs are mammals that are related to moles and shrews. 
* Their food consists of insects.
* The spiny hedgehogs are found in Africa and Eurasia, except SE Asia.
* They have rounded bodies up to 13 in. (33 cm) long, very short tails, and pointed snouts; their backs and sides are covered with stiff spines and their undersides with coarse hair.
* They are usually brown and yellow in color.
* When frightened, a hedgehog rolls itself into a tight ball with its spines pointing outward; when rolled up it is invulnerable to almost any predator.
* Hedgehogs are not porcupines or vice versa. This is a common myth.                    
* Hedgehogs usually suffer from fleas. Flea powder can be used to combat this. The good news is that it can’t be spread to cats, dogs or humans.                                  
* Obviously hedgehogs are not like cats or dogs. You cannot cuddle them or pet them. This is important to realize before purchasing one.

That noted, if you are interested in buying a hedgehog as a pet, be advised that you should only buy one. Especially if you are a first time buyer. They are unique animals and it is best to always start out with one.