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Trixie                                                                                                                     African  Hedgehog
IUCN: Least Concern

Picture
Trixie is likely a cross between a North African hedgehog (Atelerix algirus) and an African pygmy hedgehog (A. albiventris), also known as a four-toed hedgehog due to the number of toes this species has on its hind feet. There are seventeen species of hedgehogs native to Europe, Africa, and Asia, and all of their populations are currently considered to be stable.

Hedgehogs' common name comes from the combination of their tendency to frequent hedges and their piglike snouts. Most species are solitary and nocturnal.  Hedgehog spines are actually hollow, pointy hairs rich in keratin, giving them their stiffness. Though non-poisonous and lacking in barbs, these nevertheless provide a good source of protection when hedgehogs curl up in a ball when confronted with potential predators.

Trixie provides a great example of how the unique physical characteristics of a species help them adapt to their environments. In addition to what we can see on the outside, hedgehogs also have an impressive natural immunity to two different types of snake venom, though a viper bite may still be lethal depending on the amount of venom it discharges.

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