Found only in Madagascar, the lowland streaked tenrec (Hemicentetes semispinosus) is known for its unusual appearance, as well as its peculiar behaviors and adaptations.
Now, let’s move on to some of the streaked tenrec’s more interesting behaviors. One of the most unique things about these animals is their ability to echolocate. That’s right, just like bats, streaked tenrecs use sound waves to navigate their environment and find prey. They produce clicking sounds with their mouths and then listen for the echoes to determine the location of their prey.
Before giving birth, a pregnant female will excavate a depression in the ground inside the burrow, utilizing her snout as a spade. In order to deter potential predators, the Streaked tenrec will exhibit its quills. If compelled to confront another species, it will employ a forceful headbutt with the goal of immobilizing its adversary.
The streaked tenrec is definitely a fascinating and adorable little animal that deserves more attention. But not over-attention, of course. So, if you ever find yourself in Madagascar, and come across one of these little critters, just don’t get too close, or you might find yourself on the receiving end of some of those black and yellow spikes!