The West European Hedgehog is large, stout with short tail and ears. Its head back and side are covered with yellowish brown spines. Head and body length is 21-30 cm. Weight is .8-1 kg.

This animal is nocturnal and it feeds on insects and small invertebrates. It has acute hearing and smell but its eyesight is poor. For protection the hedgehog rolls into a spiny ball. It hibernates in cold climates in a nest among tree roots or under bushes.

The West European Hedgehog breeds twice a year with litters of 4-5 young. Gestation is 34-49 days. Young are weaned at 4 weeks.

They are found in W Europe; Spain to Italy and Istrian Peninsula; north to Poland, Scandinavia and NW European Russia. Islands of Ireland, Britain, Corsica, Sardinia, Sicily, Azores, and many smaller islands. Introduced to New Zealand.