Hedgehogs are small, spiny mammals whose unique appearance and growing popularity as exotic pets often lead to questions about their presence outside their natural range. The frequent query of whether these animals live in the wild in a subtropical state like Florida has a clear answer rooted in their biology and geographic history.
Hedgehog Natural Habitat and Biology
The 17 species of hedgehog belong to the subfamily Erinaceinae, which is entirely native to the Old World, including Europe, Asia, and Africa. They are not indigenous to the Americas, and the United States has no native species. These solitary, nocturnal omnivores have evolved for life in a range of habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and deserts. They forage for insects, worms, and various plant matter.
The biological needs of the European and African species, which are the most commonly known, are strongly tied to the temperate and arid environments where they thrive. Their survival relies on a diet of insects, snails, and amphibians. Many species possess the ability to hibernate during periods of extreme cold or food scarcity. This evolutionary history makes them poorly adapted to the ecological pressures and climate found in the southeastern United States.
Wild Hedgehogs in Florida: The Definitive Answer
There are no established, reproducing populations of wild hedgehogs in Florida. Any hedgehog observed outside is virtually guaranteed to be an escaped or abandoned pet, most likely an African Pygmy Hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris), a hybrid species commonly kept in captivity. The American continent has been without any native hedgehog species for millions of years, confirming that any sighting is of an introduced animal. Florida’s environment presents several challenges that make it difficult for hedgehogs to establish a feral presence. The state’s high humidity and heavy rainfall do not align with the drier conditions of their native habitats, which can make them susceptible to respiratory issues.
Furthermore, the predator pressure from native Florida species, such as owls, alligators, and various snakes, would quickly decimate any small, introduced population. The presence of a hedgehog sighting, which sometimes occurs, does not indicate an established wild population. Instead, it represents a temporary survival event of a lost pet.
Keeping Hedgehogs as Exotic Pets in Florida
Hedgehogs do not exist in the Florida wild, so their presence in the state is solely due to human ownership. The state recognizes the African Pygmy Hedgehog as an exotic pet. Possession is regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) under Chapter 68A-6 of the Florida Administrative Code. This chapter classifies captive wildlife and sets forth permitting requirements for different risk levels.
Despite being an exotic species, the African Pygmy Hedgehog is specifically listed among the animals that do not require an FWC permit for personal possession in Florida. This exemption places them in the same category as other small, low-risk exotic mammals like gerbils and sugar gliders. This distinguishes them from Class I and Class II wildlife that require extensive permitting. Owners must still ensure the animal is legally acquired and humanely maintained, but the state does not mandate a specific permit to keep one in a private residence.