Parasites affecting wild European hedgehogs: disease potential and zoonoses

Abstract

The wild European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is a frequent visitor to domestic gardens; as a result, injured and debilitated animals are often found by the public and brought into veterinary surgeries and rescue centres for treatment and rehabilitation. Wild hedgehogs often carry heavy parasite burdens, which in the diseased or debilitated animal will add to morbidity as well as presenting potential disease threats to pets and human carers. This article considers the wide range of parasites carried by hedgehogs and considers their pathogenicity, zoonotic potential, treatment and control.