Highland Streaked Tenrec
Hemicentetes nigriceps
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Afrosoricida · Tenrecidae
About
The highland streaked tenrec is an insectivore which lives in the central upland regions of Madagascar. Its black-and-white-striped body is covered with quills, which it raises when agitated. The spines detach and remain in the body of an inquisitive predator. The function of the black-and-white pattern may be to mimic juveniles of Tenrec ecaudatus, since the parents of this species are known to be aggressively protective, and the stripes may have developed as a type of camouflage while foraging. The highland streaked tenrec uses its long snout to burrow under leaves and bark, searching for earthworms, its primary food.
Fun Fact
The function of the black-and-white pattern may be to mimic juveniles of Tenrec ecaudatus, since the parents of this species are known to be aggressively protective, and the stripes may have developed as a type of camouflage while foraging.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Lives in the central upland regions of Madagascar.
Diet
Insectivore
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance