Species Specifics. Lesser hedgehog tenrecs on the other-hand will tend to uncurl and bite their enemies. Tenrecs as pets do not usually bite, and are much more open to being friendly than a hedgehog. They rest in tree hollows by day, making a cozy den. The lesser tenrecs genitalia is hidden inside so this makes telling the gender very difficult. Indigenous to Madagascar, these fascinating Tenrecidae mammals make great pets. Tenrecs are shorter and smaller than hedgehogs and weigh less than them as well. The Madagascar Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec was named for its resemblance to the African Pygmy Hedgehog, however this created some confusion in the pet world. Join Deidre from Zoo Atlanta for a closer look at a tiny mammal with a big name. Because they have spines (quills) like hedgehogs, the name lesser hedgehog tenrec was coined. Such as the lesser hedgehog tenrec which are hardy, friendly, and full of personality. The males have a shorter nose and a broader head and around 10 months will develop puffy eye rings, the females have a longer nose and a skinnier face. The only way to get a 100% guarantee is a DNA test, so most owners will go by physical features. Greater Madagascar tenrecs also have these spines, but you won't often find them as pets in the United States. The spiny coat is very different in color, it can range from light beige to dark brown. A Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec weighs only as much as an apple or a pear. (This list is NOT for hedgehogs - that list can be found here.) Housing and feeding a tenrec is relatively simple. We are fairly new to breeding these little mammals. We in no way claim to be an expert in tenrecs. Though similar in appearance to hedgehogs, they are more closely related to shrews, moles, and otters. These small mammals are adapted to fill the role of mice, hedgehogs, shrews, and opossums found in other parts of the world. Below is a basic list of essential supplies for properly housing and caring for a tenrec, and should be acquired before bringing your tenrec home. The Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec and the African Pygmy Hedgehog are completely unrelated. If you look closely they do have distinct differences. The most common Tenrec in the pet-trade is the Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec which would naturally live in Madagascar in forests, savanna, shrub land or grassland. Many refer to them as “lesser hedgehog tenrecs”. They are similar in appearance to the hedgehog, with some differences including a short spine-covered tail. Tenrecs are often mistaken for hedgehogs due to their name, but they are actually two,separate species of animals. Weird Animal Facts: Lesser Madagascar Hedgehog Tenrec Share this page. There are four sub-families of tenrecs, and the Lesser Madagascar Hedgehog Tenrec is part of the Tenrecinae, or spiny tenrec, group. They measure from 5 - 6.8 inches and typically weigh around 200g. The lesser hedgehog tenrec is found in the dry deciduous forest areas of western Madagascar and the xerophytic spiny forest and gallery regions of southwest Madagascar. The Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec is an adorable little mammal that can be occassionally confused with a hedgehog. This interesting vertebrate can vocalize, climb great heights, and squeeze through small spaces. Its strong claws even enable it to climb down tree trunks headfirst. Share this page on Google Classroom; Share this page on Twitter; Share this page on Facebook; Share this page on Email; Weird rules! Lesser hedgehog tenrecs are one of 30 species of tenrec found on the island of Madagascar. The wild west. The Lesser Madagascar Hedgehog Tenrec is about 5-7 inches from nose to tail. The Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec is a good climber. Cage: Enclosure must be flat-bottomed with enough floor space for the necessary items (approx. 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