What Do Hedgehogs Eat? A Guide to Hedgehog Diet and Feeding

The hedgehog is a small omnivorous mammal that feeds mainly on animal matter. In the wild it lives primarily by hunting insects, and its usual foods include beetles, moth larvae, earthworms, snails and slugs. It will also occasionally eat bird eggs, small rodents and fallen berries and fruits. Relying on its keen sense of smell and nocturnal habits, the hedgehog often rummages through leaf litter and the surface soil at night in search of prey, which makes it helpful for controlling agricultural and forestry pests and a small animal that benefits the ecosystem.

For hedgehogs kept in captivity, the staple food can be a high-quality low-fat cat food or a dedicated hedgehog food, supplemented with insects such as mealworms and crickets to provide animal protein. A small amount of fruit such as apple or banana can be offered as a treat. The diet should be varied but not excessive, to avoid obesity caused by overnutrition. Feeding at fixed times and in fixed amounts is better for keeping the hedgehog healthy.

It is worth noting that some foods are harmful to hedgehogs. Milk easily causes lactose intolerance and diarrhea, and chocolate, onion, garlic and avocado should not be fed either; overly salty and spicy processed foods should likewise be avoided. Drinking water must be clean and fresh, and it is best to change it every day.

Overall, the hedgehog's diet centers on high-protein insects, supplemented with an appropriate amount of fruits, vegetables and grain-based staple food. Wild hedgehogs should not be caught and kept at will, and some areas have protection and management regulations; before keeping one, you should first learn about the relevant requirements, and when feeding, make sure the food is fresh and balanced, so that the hedgehog can live a long life.