Typical hedgehog form with rather large ears, though not as proportionately large as in the Long-eared Hedgehog. Upper parts covered in spines up to 2.7cm long. Dorsal spines dark, tipped with pale brown. This gives a very dark impression of the back when seen from above, much darker than the Long-eared Hedgehog. Frontal spines divided by a bare patch or parting, extending some 3cm back, but not a field feature. Spines along flank shorter and pale tipped. Underparts white with dark patches, rather variable. Head with rather pointed snout, but not as pointed as Long-eared Hedgehog. Face bicolored or all dark. Snout, chin, and throat dark brown. Forehead to just above eye and down sides pale. Ears large, broad-based, and extending beyond spines. Legs dark brown. Tail short.