How difficult is it to keep Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec?

Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.

What is the lifespan of Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec?

The average lifespan of Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec is 8-13 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.

How large does Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec get?

Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec typically reaches 15-22cm / 100-230g as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec?

Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec feeds on: Insects (crickets, mealworms), cat wet food, small amounts of fruit. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec?

The price of Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec varies significantly depending on variety, age, sex, and the individual animal's condition. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec

Advanced

Echinops telfairi

Small Madagascar mammal resembling a hedgehog but actually a tenrec, an entirely different order. Has a hibernation instinct in cooler months.

Difficulty

Advanced

Temperature

18〜26℃

Lifespan

8-13 years

Size

15-22cm / 100-230g

Humidity

40〜60%

Diet

Insects (crickets, mealworms), cat wet food, small amounts of fruit

About

The hedgehog tenrec (Echinops telfairi), also called the lesser hedgehog tenrec, is a small insectivorous mammal native to the dry and spiny forests and grasslands of southern and southwestern Madagascar. Despite their striking resemblance to hedgehogs—including a dorsal coat of short spines and the ability to roll into a defensive ball—they are entirely unrelated to hedgehogs, belonging instead to the ancient Malagasy order Afrosoricida. Their similarity to hedgehogs is a classic example of convergent evolution. They are nocturnal and solitary in the wild. Diet is insectivore-based: quality insectivore kibble supplemented with live insects (crickets, mealworms). Specialized exotic veterinary care is essential. Common health concerns include mite infestation, neoplasia, and respiratory disease.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Lifespan of the Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec

The Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec lives 8-13 years.

Captive lifespan is 8–13 years.

Size of the Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec

The Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec grows to 15-22cm / 100-230g.

Adults measure 15–22 cm and weigh 100–230 g.

Temperature & humidity for the Lesser Hedgehog Tenrec

Temperature management is critical: an enclosure temperature of 25–30 °C must be maintained year-round; exposure to cold induces a potentially dangerous torpor.