The Hedgehog was one of the few existing spiny mammals on earth, and was originally found throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, and New Zealand. Its name was derived from the Middle English word ‘heyghoge’ due to its frequenting of hedgerows and its pig-like snout, and it was also sometimes known as a ‘hedgepig’ or ‘furze-pig’. These spines, actually hollow hairs stiffened with keratin, were not poisonous and they were not removed easily like that of the porcupine. While hedgehogs tended to flee or attack when confronted with predators, they were much better known for their ability to roll into a tight ball with their spines pointing outwards as a deterrent.
Hedgehogs were nocturnal omnivores, and they fed primarily on insects, mushrooms, berries, and fruits. Pet owners of hedgehogs found that these remarkable creatures would also subsist happily on commercial dog or cat food, although these were not very nutritious. Hedgehogs were sometimes welcomed by traditional gardeners who found their presence useful in reducing the numbers of pests that would prey upon precious vegetables and fruits. Able to live up to 7 years in captivity, their small size and general amiability made them a popular choice of exotic pets in countries that allowed hedgehog ownership.Hedgehogs went rapidly extinct on earth following WWT due to their susceptibility to cancer (Hedgehogs shared many diseases common to humans).
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