A hunt for hedgehogs at Kyalami

Masters of Science in Zoology student at the university Jessica Artingstall said the aim of the project was to find out where Southern African hedgehogs occur. She asked people to report details of sightings, such as when and where. Sighting even up to 100 years old are wanted for the project.

Artingstall described the hedgehog as having a dark underbelly but said there are many variations, with some even having white stomachs. “They are different from other hedgehogs by having five toes on their back foot, instead of four. You are most likely to find them at night or after rain storms,” Artingstall said.

She also said hedgehogs are interesting and unique, with only one naturally occurring species in South Africa. “We decided to pursue research on southern African hedgehogs (Atelerix frontalis) because they were known to occur in many urban areas of Johannesburg. They are quite frequently found in Midrand and Kyalami and the public can definitely help us greatly by reporting when and where they have seen a southern African hedgehog.

“We are curious to understand where they were occurring and how they were surviving there. What started as an honours research study developed into a masters and now we are not only looking at the Johannesburg populations but the whole of southern Africa. With sightings apparently becoming less common, we are deeply concerned about this species future and where they are still occurring in southern Africa,” explained the zoology student.

Chairperson of Glen Austin Conservancy Rob Fowler said that the conservancy was participating to help the project.

The Greater Kyalami Conservancy is making a night of it and will be hosting a picnic followed by a search for hedgehogs. It will be held at 548 Pony Lane from 7pm on 11 April. All community members are welcomed and asked to wear gum boots and to bring torches.

Details: ifoundahedgehog@gmail.com