Fauna
Mammal

Long-eared Hedgehog

Hemiechinus auritus

Also known as Egyptian Long-eared Hedgehog

Long-eared hedgehogs navigate the arid steppes and deserts of Central Asia and the Middle East, using their oversized ears to dissipate body heat and pinpoint the faint rustling of insects. Unlike their heavier European cousins, these agile foragers run swiftly across sandy terrain and dig shallow burrows to escape scorching daytime temperatures. When threatened, they often choose rapid flight or energetic lunges over curling into a tight spiny ball.

NocturnalArid AdaptedInsectivore
Long-eared Hedgehog reference1 / 7
(c) Kudaibergen Amirekul, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Kudaibergen Amirekul · cc-by-sa
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyBeetles, Grasshoppers, Lizards
Predators
  • Owls
  • Eagles
  • Foxes
ThreatsHabitat degradation, vehicle collisions, and agricultural pesticides
HabitatsDeserts, dry steppes, semi-deserts, and scrublands
Life span3–6 years in the wild
Classification
  1. FamilyErinaceidae
  2. SpeciesHemiechinus auritus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskModerate
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is moderate
Wild individuals carry ticks that transmit pathogens; observe from a safe distance without touching.
Why it is dangerous
Carries brown dog ticks that transmit Boutonneuse fever, and can deliver sharp bites or spine pricks if handled.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Identified by prominent ears exceeding three centimeters in length and pale sand-colored spines.
What to do
Maintain a respectful distance and avoid touching wild individuals with bare hands.
Responsible observation
  • Night Scouting: Search dry sandy areas after dusk using a dim red light to spot active foragers.
  • Safe Observation: Avoid picking up wild individuals to prevent tick transmission and sharp spine pricks.
Related species
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