Hedgehog vs Echidna: How Are They Different?

1. Taxonomy: Echidnas and hedgehogs are often confused due to their spiny exteriors, but they differ significantly in biology and habitat. (Image: Canva)

2. Native Regions: Echidnas are native to Australia and New Guinea, whereas hedgehogs are found across Europe, Asia, Africa and New Zealand. (Image: Canva)

3. Size Comparisons: Echidnas are larger, weighing 9–15 pounds and measuring 14–20 inches, compared to hedgehogs' 2–5 pounds and 4–12 inches. (Image: Canva)

4. Spines vs. Quills: Echidnas have long, stiff spines made of keratin, while hedgehogs possess shorter, hollow spines that are also keratin-based. (Image: Canva)

5. Reproductive Methods: Echidnas lay eggs that hatch into puggles in a protective pouch. Hedgehogs instead give birth to live young. (Image: Canva)

6. Expert in Survival: Hedgehogs excel at defensive strategies, foraging and surviving seasonal changes. (Image: Canva)

7. Expert in finding its prey: Echidnas are experts at finding hidden prey and burrowing, using unique biological adaptations. (Image: Canva)

8. Defense Mechanisms: Both roll into balls when threatened. Echidnas dig burrows, whereas hedgehogs build nests for protection. (Image: Canva)

9. Conservation Status: Echidnas are classified as "Least Concern" by the IUCN, whereas some hedgehog species face threats leading to declining populations. (Image: Canva)

10. Lifespan: Echidnas can live up to 50 years in the wild, while hedgehogs typically live around 3–7 years. (Image: Canva)