Animals

History at CuriOdyssey

Our tenrec was born under human care as part of an SSP (Species Survival Plan) at Potter Park Zoo in Michigan. The tenrec was transferred to CuriOdyssey in May 2023.

Fun facts about tenrecs

Tenrecs use sand to bathe themselves. The sand helps exfoliate their skin and keep it healthy. They bathe by rubbing into the sand, grabbing the sand with their paws, and rubbing it into their head, face, and between their spines.

For defense, this animal will roll into a protective ball of spines that point in every direction. If the threat persists, they will uncurl and charge at the offender with teeth bared to bite.

Lesser tenrecs go through torpor for 3-5 months during the cold season. Torpor is a state of hibernation-like inactivity in the body, in which the animal's temperature, respiration, and heartbeat decrease to conserve energy.

How long do tenrecs live?

Lesser hedgehog tenrecs live 8 to 10 years in the wild. Under human care, they can live 13 years on average.

Where do tenrecs live?

Lesser hedgehog tenrec habitats are dry forests, scrub, cultivated areas, dry coastal regions, and semi-desert. Tenrecs are endemic to arid parts of southern and southwestern Madagascar.

Are lesser hedgehog tenrecs endangered?

No special status.