Planning a trip to Rietvlei Nature Reserve? Download opspoor to see recent sightings in the park and log your own.
When to see Southern African Hedgehog in Rietvlei Nature Reserve
Southern African Hedgehog are most active at night (19:00 to 05:00). Much of their activity falls outside gate hours, so the first drive after the gates open and the last hour before they close give you the best chance.
This is Southern African Hedgehog's general behavior. Once enough sightings are logged in Rietvlei Nature Reserve, this page also shows when they're actually seen here.
About the Southern African Hedgehog
The southern African hedgehog is a small nocturnal insectivorous mammal recognised by its compact body and coat of protective spines. It occurs mainly in grassland, savanna, fynbos and other habitats with suitable ground cover. It feeds primarily on insects and other invertebrates but may also consume small vertebrates, eggs and plant material. When threatened, it curls into a tight ball with its spines exposed, providing effective protection against many predators.
How to identify the Southern African Hedgehog
Small, compact hedgehog with a pointed snout, small ears and a back covered in short, dense spines. The face and underside are covered in coarse fur, and the colouring is generally brownish-grey with a paler underside.
Other species to look for in Rietvlei Nature Reserve
Other parks where you can see Southern African Hedgehog
Heading to Rietvlei Nature Reserve? opspoor shows where Southern African Hedgehog have been logged recently and lets you log your own, even with no signal.