The product under consideration is an ordinary hedgehog, known by the scientific name *Erinaceus europaeus*. This small mammal belongs to the family Erinaceidae and is widespread in Europe and parts of Asia. Its body length ranges from 20 to 30 cm, its tail is about 3 cm long, and its weight is approximately 700–800 grams. The ears are small (no more than 3.5 cm), the nose is sharp and constantly moist, which helps the hedgehog navigate in the dark.
The appearance of the hedgehog is characterized by a dark-brown head and sides with white needles decorated with black and brown stripes. The needles are short (up to 3 cm), smooth, hollow, and air-filled; they grow at a speed similar to hair growth. On the head, the needles are divided into two parts along a “parting,” and an adult hedgehog has from 5,000 to 6,000 needles in total, while young specimens have about 3,000. The paws have five toes with sharp claws; the hind limbs are longer than the forelimbs.
The hedgehog's lifestyle is nocturnal: it is active at dusk and night, preferring forest edges and cultivated landscapes. Its diet consists of insects, berries, mushrooms, and carrion. In captivity, a hedgehog can be kept in an aquarium with a house and bedding made of sawdust; the diet includes meat, fish, eggs, vegetables, and calcium supplements. Females build nests and usually give birth to from 3 to 8 offspring. These characteristics make the hedgehog an interesting object for lovers of exotic animals and scientific research.
