les4048 wrote:Is there a story behind this? Would he not be happier back out in the wild?
Hebert was bought for me by my Wife, after I was introduced to his Mother "Cookie" by her owners, who run an Exotic Zoo. I have always loved Hedgehogs, one of my Favourite Animals. So, Tina bought me one.
He is an African Pygmy Hedgehog, a cross breed. They are sold as 'Exotic' pets, much like a Cat or Dog and are somewhat expensive, especially the more colourful ones. We also have a Bearded Dragon called Yogi and 3 Cats lol.
When I was younger, I collected Hedgehog ornaments and my Obsession with Hedghhogs was so well known amongst friends and family, they would all buy me Hedgehogs trinkets and stuff all the time. My Mother gave me a boxed Ornamental Hedgehog that was made in Britain in the 1950's (That was in 1996 so it was very old), It was hand made, Painted and Glazed and was beautiful. This alongside many, many Pounds worth and sentimental value items, was robbed out of my Car whilst I was moving into a flat
As mentioned by Dave Goody, Herbert is not a native Hedghog and would not survive outside. He is becoming a very friendly Hedgehog now and will happily climb onto my Hands to be lifted out of the Cage or put back, when he gets bored of exploring.