Tailless Tenrec
Tenrec ecaudatus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Eulipotyphla · Tenrecidae
About
The tailless tenrec, also known as the common tenrec, is a species of mammal in the family Tenrecidae. It is the only member of the genus Tenrec. Native to Madagascar, it is also found on the Comoros, Mauritius, Réunion, and Seychelles island groups, where it has been purposely introduced. Its natural habitat is the understory of subtropical-tropical forest, open forest, arid shrub-land, savanna, arable land, pastures, crop plantations, private gardens, and some landscaped, urban areas.
Fun Fact
Tailless tenrecs have up to 32 young per litter — the most of any mammal — and they can enter torpor at any temperature, essentially turning their metabolism on and off like a switch.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Forests and scrublands
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
6-8 years
Threats
- Deforestation
- Wildfire