Small Oddities

Last Updated on September 20, 2013.

Forehead Furrow or Reverse Mohawk

• There is a natural part on the forehead of the hedgehog where there are no spines. 
• This natural bald spot is normal and is in no way related to the presence of mites or injury.
• A hedgehog can raise it’s forehead spines, when it is nervous or mildly irritated. 
• The furrow provides space for the raised spines so they point forward, instead of criss-crossing when the skin is pulled down over the eyes.

Tail

• Both sexes have short, stubby tails that are usually hidden under their quills.
• Hedgehogs’ tails are approximately a half-inch in length.
• The tail can be confused with a penis, because the tail curves toward the head when the hedgehog is placed on it’s back.  The male’s penile sheath and hidden penis are located mid-abdominally.
• One thing to look for is a tail is sticking straight out or up:  that means it needs to potty, so be prepared!

Chin Mole

• This small bump under the chin is harmless and normal.
• It is often referred to as a “cutie mark.”

Contributor:  Susan Crocker, Susan’s Hawkeye Hedgies