Hedgehogs do not exist in the wild within California. No native species of hedgehog is found anywhere in North America; their natural range is limited to other continents. The African Pygmy Hedgehog is the species most commonly sought as a household pet. However, California law prohibits the possession of all 17 species of hedgehog to protect the state’s agriculture and unique native wildlife.
Are Hedgehogs Native to California?
Hedgehogs are not indigenous to California or the entire North American continent. The closest relative to a hedgehog is the shrew, but they belong to a different family of mammals. Any hedgehog seen in California would be an escaped or illegally released pet.
Although California’s diverse climate could potentially allow a non-native population to survive for a time, a self-sustaining wild population has not been established. California’s native predators and environmental factors are not conducive to the long-term survival of a released exotic species.
Hedgehogs as Pets: California Law
California maintains restrictive laws regarding the possession of exotic animals, classifying hedgehogs as prohibited species. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) prohibits the ownership, importation, transportation, and sale of all 17 species of hedgehog. This prohibition exists because they are considered a threat to native wildlife and agriculture if they establish a feral population after escaping captivity.
The state is concerned about hedgehogs becoming an invasive species that could compete with native animals for food and habitat. Non-native animals can also carry and transmit diseases, such as salmonella, to California’s native species and livestock. Possession of a hedgehog without a special Restricted Species Permit is a misdemeanor offense. Permits are only granted for specific purposes like research or public exhibition, not for personal pet ownership.
Penalties for illegal ownership include a minimum fine of $500, and the animal will be confiscated. The owner is often responsible for the costs associated with the removal and care of the animal. This enforcement policy aims to safeguard the state’s ecological balance from the potential harm of non-native species.
The Natural Range of Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs are naturally distributed across Europe, Asia, and Africa. There are 17 distinct species that have adapted to a wide variety of environments. For instance, the European Hedgehog is common in grasslands, woodlands, and suburban gardens.
African species, such as the Four-toed Hedgehog, are found in regions ranging from grasslands to semi-arid climates. These animals demonstrate adaptability to different climates, from the warm tropics to areas near the Arctic Circle. Many hedgehog species are nocturnal omnivores, with their diet consisting primarily of insects, snails, and other small invertebrates.
Some species in the northern parts of their range enter true hibernation during the winter months. This adaptation allows them to survive periods when food is scarce. Their ability to curl into a tight, spiny ball offers protection from most natural predators.