What are the precautions for raising hedgehogs? Keep these key points in mind

Although hedgehogs are small in size, their meat is tender, nutritious and highly valued medicinally. However, due to widespread hunting by humans, their numbers have dropped sharply, which is why they were listed as a Class II protected animal by the state. But with the development of the breeding industry, hedgehog farming has also risen, and captive-bred hedgehogs are extremely popular on the market, whether for medicinal use, food or as pets. But what should be noted when raising hedgehogs? Many people do not know, so Qinnong Web brings you a detailed introduction below.

1. Farming environment

Hedgehogs are rather timid, prefer quiet, and are very easily startled, so when farming them, try to keep them in a quiet environment. They should not be kept near busy downtown areas or beside roads, as these places will startle the hedgehogs and affect their growth. Hedgehogs are also afraid of light, mainly active at night and hiding during the day, so this point should be noted when farming them. In addition, the farming space for hedgehogs does not need to be large; generally every 30 commercial hedgehogs occupy about 10 sq m of space.

2. Feeding

Hedgehogs are omnivorous animals, and they mainly prey on invertebrates and small vertebrates as well as melons and fruits. So when farming them artificially, meat should be provided, paired with other grain by-products, green vegetables, etc., so as to meet their normal needs. In addition, they can also be fed insects such as beetles, snails and earthworms.

3. Hibernation

Hedgehogs are also animals that hibernate. They begin hibernating when the temperature falls below 7°C, and hibernation can last as long as 4-5 months. During hibernation, body temperature drops and physiological functions weaken. It is best for them to be in a quiet environment during hibernation; if hibernation ends early, it may cause them to starve to death. After hibernation ends, when the temperature reaches above 10°C, the hedgehogs will be extremely thirsty at this time, so sufficient clean water should be provided. It is best not to feed them milk, otherwise it will cause their death.

4. Breeding

Hedgehogs begin to come into heat after hibernation, and at this time preparations for mating should be made. If mating is not carried out in time, it may lead to fighting within the group and cause casualties. The gestation period is generally about 60 days. During this period, food supply should be sufficient and management proper. They can breed twice a year, and the survival rate of the young is also relatively high.

5. Disease prevention and control

Hedgehogs have extremely strong adaptability, and they have relatively few diseases. There are no infectious diseases among them. Generally, as long as feeding and hygiene measures are done well, there are very few diseases. The main diseases are gastrointestinal problems, ringworm and parasites. The risk of these diseases is relatively small and they are easy to treat; human medicines can be used to cure them.

The above are the precautions for raising hedgehogs brought to you by Qinnong Web. That is all for the introduction on what to note when raising hedgehogs. We hope it can help you. For more farming knowledge, please stay tuned to Qinnong Web.