The Four-toed or White-bellied Hedgehog is native to savannah grasslands of west, central and eastern Africa. Like other hedgehogs, it is solitary and nocturnal. Much smaller than the European Hedgehog, it is one of the two species which have been crossed to create the exotic pet African Pygmy Hedgehog.

In addition to its four-toed hind feet and white belly fur, the Four-toed has white fur on its face and a characteristic brown muzzle, also features of the African Pygmy Hedgehog. Captive-bred pet hedgehogs may be Four-toed but are usually a hybrid race of Four-toed and the slightly larger Algerian (also North African - Atelerix algirus) hedgehogs.

Spine colours vary from white to various shades of brown but are always white-tipped and faces/bellies are always white (unlike the European Hedgehog which has a dark brown face/belly). Like all hedgehogs, they are nocturnal and prickly. In addition they have special needs, such as temperatures in excess of 20 degrees C at all times since they are not designed to hibernate. While I don't recommend these hedgehogs as pets, the four above were rescues on behalf of a Wildlife Trust (which thought they would be British Hedgehogs) and in need of a home.