The Scops-owl & the Hedgehog

[Shah]

Hi,

Visited the Mushrif park yesterday night.

2 Pallid Scop-owls
1 Indian Roller
100s of Laughing and Collared Doves
1 Hedgehog (ID required)

Regards

Shah

[Sandman]

Great shots Shah!
Hopefully someone will get the hog ID.

[Greg Simkins]

Hi Shah

Nice Photos.
The overall black appearance and the fact that the spines are black tipped would suggest it is a Brandt's Hedgehog (Paraechinus hypomelas), unusual as it is a mountainous spp.

Regards
Greg

[reimerb]

Comparing it with Wild about Mammals by Joengbloed and my Ethiopian hedgehog pics, I'd have to agree with the Brandt's id.

[Steve James]

Hi Shah,
Yes, it is a Brandt's Hedgehog, no question. As the other guys point out Brandt's is normally associated with mountains. Ethiopian, is the one along the coast & even on some islands like Sir Bani Yas! Introduced there?
I have recorded Brandt's on the Dubai - Al Ain Road, in a plantation a few kilometres away from the mountains.
This could be a significant record. Someone like Reza would probably know about this more than I. If he doesn't see this posting, & doesn't comment, then give him a ring, as he is a mine of information & very helpful.
Cheers