Yes, owning a hedgehog is legal in Spain, but subject to strict regional and species-specific regulations.
Hedgehogs are not listed as prohibited exotic pets under Spain’s national wildlife protection laws, yet their ownership is heavily regulated by autonomous communities. The 2023 Royal Decree 630/2013 on invasive species and the upcoming 2026 EU-wide biodiversity strategy impose indirect restrictions by requiring permits for non-native species. Local authorities, such as the Dirección General de Biodiversidad y Calidad Ambiental in Catalonia or the Consejería de Medio Ambiente in Andalusia, enforce these rules. Unauthorized breeding or trade can result in fines up to €300,000 under Law 42/2007 on Natural Heritage and Biodiversity.
Key Regulations for Owning a Hedgehog in Spain
- Species-Specific Permits: Only Erinaceus europaeus (European hedgehog) is generally permitted; exotic species like Atelerix albiventris (African pygmy hedgehog) require special authorization from regional environmental agencies.
- CITES Compliance: If the hedgehog originates from outside the EU, CITES documentation (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) must be validated by the Servicio de Protección de la Naturaleza (SEPRONA) of the Civil Guard.
- Local Ordinances: Municipalities such as Madrid or Barcelona may impose additional restrictions, including mandatory microchipping, veterinary health certificates, or bans on wild-caught specimens.