The lesser hedgehog tenrec Echinops telfairi
This species is generally distributed in southern and south-western Madagascar. Lesser hedgehog tenrecs are small, stout-bodied animals similar to hedgehogs. The body length of the lesser hedgehog tenrec ranges from 140 to 180 mm; the weight is 110-250 grams. Lesser and greater hedgehog tenrecs are the only tenrec species that are completely covered with spines, including the head. These animals mainly inhabit forests and build dens among tree roots. Lesser hedgehog tenrecs hibernate for 3-5 months during dry season. They can forage both in trees and on the ground. The lesser hedgehog tenrec is nocturnal but may be active in other times of the day. It typically rests under the log, in the deadwood, or in a hollow tree during daytime. These tenrecs are usually solitary except for the breeding season, but they tolerate the company of other tenrecs; two adult tenrecs were reported to hibernate together. Males usually avoid each other in captivity and can demonstrate aggression towards each other but animals of different sexes may hibernate together. Lesser hedgehog tenrecs are terrestrial although they sometimes spend time in trees. When threatened, these tenrecs curl into a ball, leaving only sharp spines exposed. They communicate through tactile contacts, acoustic signals, and scent marking. Mating occurs in October, immediately after the animals emerge from hibernation, and continues through spring time (which is autumn in Europe). Gestation period is 42-49 days (some sources report 61-68 days) and babies are born in December or January. The size of the litter is 1 to 10 (average – 5-7). Newborn lesser hedgehog tenrec weighs about 8 grams; its tiny spines begin to emerge on the fifth day, eyes open on the ninth day, and it becomes completely independent after 30-35 days. Young tenrecs reach sexual maturity after their first hibernation, females at 14 months of age and males at 8.5 months of age. Lesser hedgehog tenrecs live as long as 13 years in captivity. Their longevity in the wild is 3 to 4 years.
