Paraechinus

Paraechinus is a genus of hedgehogs in the family Erinaceidae. It comprises several desert-adapted species native to arid and semi-arid regions of North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of the Indian subcontinent. Members of this genus are small to medium-sized non-volant mammals characterized by a dense coat of spines on their backs, a relatively elongated snout, small eyes, and short ears. They tend to have sandy or pale coloration that aids in camouflage in their habitat.

Habitat and ecology

Paraechinus hedgehogs are primarily terrestrial and nocturnal. They favor deserts, scrublands, rocky areas, and other arid environments where they can find shelter and sheltering burrows or crevices. Their diet is opportunistic, consisting mainly of insects and other invertebrates, with occasional plant matter, seeds, and fruit. They are capable of withstanding periods of heat and drought and may enter torpor or aestivation during extreme conditions.

Behaviour

These hedgehogs are generally solitary, coming together briefly for mating. They are defensive when threatened, curling into a ball to protect their vulnerable underside with spines. Reproduction and breeding seasons vary by region, but many species have defined mating periods followed by a gestation of several weeks and litters that typically include multiple young.

Distribution

Paraechinus species occur across parts of North Africa, the Middle East, and western and South Asia. Their ranges overlap with other hedgehog genera, and local distributions are influenced by climate, habitat availability, and human activities.

Taxonomy

The genus Paraechinus was established to classify desert-adapted hedgehogs distinct from other groups. Taxonomic opinions have varied over time, with some revisions aligning certain species with related genera. Molecular studies continue to refine the relationships within Erinaceinae and the broader hedgehog family.