The Estonian Theriological Society, in collaboration with partners, has announced the hedgehog as the animal of the year 2026 – more precisely, hedgehogs, as there are two species of them in Estonia.
Hedgehogs are animals that many consider ordinary inhabitants of gardens, but their way of life, role in the ecosystem, and the threats they face are often little known. Many also do not know that in small Estonia, there are two species of hedgehogs. This is why it was decided to pay special attention to the hedgehog in 2026 – an animal that lives close to humans and therefore reflects the state of our everyday habitat well.
At first glance, the two species of hedgehogs found in Estonia – the European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) and the white-breasted hedgehog (E. roumanicus) – look very similar. They were considered separate species based on genetic studies and external differences only at the turn of the century. However, if you look closely at the snout of these animals, the white-breasted hedgehog has a uniformly gray snout, and as the name suggests, it has a light "collar" formed by lighter fur on its neck and chest. The European hedgehog can be recognized by its lighter snout and the dark stripe running from its nose to its eyes.
Although now, at the beginning of the year, the spiky balls are in hibernation, they will again be seen scurrying around gardens and nature in the spring. They play an important role in regulating the populations of insects, snails, and other invertebrates and serve as indicators of biodiversity. Despite the fact that hedgehogs remain fairly common residents of our settlements, they are threatened, among other things, by habitat loss and fragmentation. This is why it is important to consider them when planning (urban) environments and major infrastructure projects. In addition to habitat fragmentation and road traffic, they are also affected by intensive garden maintenance, especially lawn mowing, burning of last year's grass and piles of branches, as well as aggressive dogs.
The "Year of the Hedgehog" will be launched on February 11, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the Tallinn Zoo. As part of the "Animal of the Year" program, attention will be paid to clarifying the distribution of the European and white-breasted hedgehogs in Estonia, their way of life, hibernation, and threats. Practical advice will also be provided on how everyone can help hedgehogs in their region. Additionally, there will be an opportunity to participate in a campaign for voluntary hedgehog monitoring, and the year will conclude with a traditional photo exhibition dedicated to the animal of the year.
