The Algerian hedgehog is the only species of hedgehog in the Maltese islands. This species is found in Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Spain and on several Mediterranean islands. It is the only species of African hedgehog that is found outside the African continent although it could have been introduced to these places by humans in antiquity. In Maltese, it is known as qanfud.

Hedgehogs are recognised by their shape and spines although telling the North African from the European species needs attention. In the past, hedgehogs foundin the Maltese islands were misidentified as belonging to the European species.

Hedgehogs are probably in decline in all Mediterranean countries, including Malta, although it is difficult to give exact numbers because it is active at night and difficult to study.

Hedgehogs defend themselves by rolling into a tight ball with the spines pointing out. No predator dares to attack them when they are in this position but this does not protect them from cars and many are run over every year.

The hedgehog is an important component of the natural environment

Hedgehogs are also threatened by the destruction of the countryside as well as by the use of insecticides which it accumulates in its body after eating poisoned insects and other invertebrates.

The hedgehog is an important component of the natural environment. It is an omnivore that feeds on a variety of invertebrates including insects, millipedes, snails and slugs, as well as small vertebrates, particularly reptiles and amphibians. It thus helps to control their numbers.

In the past many hedgehogs were killed either to be eaten or because it was believed that they are harmful creatures.

Today, the Algerian hedgehog is protected by both local and international legislation. It is illegal to kill or keep hedgehogs, however, this does not protect it from cars, pesticides and habitat destruction.

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