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Lesser Hedgehog Tenrecs

tenrecs

Lesser Hedgehog Tenrecs

The lesser hedgehog tenrec is a small, nocturnal mammal native to Madagascar. While they are very similar in appearance to hedgehogs, they are a completely different animal. They are primarily solitary animals. They are omnivores. They enjoy a large variety of insects in their diet as well as some fruits. In captivity, diets also may include a high quality feline kibble, yogurt, boiled chicken, eggs, and even pinkies along with a variety of calcium dusted insects. Water should be provided in a bowl. They are escape artists. Their enclosures must be escape proof with narrow wire spacing or well ventilated vivarium style and climber friendly. A UVB basking light is important for captive tenrecs to help support calcium absorption. Sand, not dust, should be provided for bathing. Lesser hedgehog tenrecs spent approximately three to five cold months of the year in torpor. Torpor is a form of hibernation. During torpor their activity is reduced. They sleep a great deal, eat very little. As torpor ends, tenrecs become more lively and enter their mating season. Tenrecs, mainly males, excrete a white fluid from their eyes and nose. The milky fluid is used to mark territory. While both sexes can excrete the milky substance and both have scent glands, males have a more potent scent and excrete more often. Neither sex have externally distinguishable sex organs. While there are some appearance differences between males and females, a dna test must be used to confirm sex. Tenrecs also have relatively lower body temperature than other animals, therefore they often feel cool to the touch. While these very social, friendly animals may appeal to some exotic pet owners, it is important new owners do adequate research and preparation prior to acquiring a lesser hedgehog tenrec.

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We are a USDA licensed breeder in NC. We collaborate with many reputable breeders from around the country to track and verify pedigrees, update lineage, and pass on health information that may be vital to continuing to produce hedgehogs that are free of hereditary disease and issues. All of our breeding hedgehogs are pedigreed and we do not condone the breeding of hedgehogs without a pedigree and knowledgable tracking of verified lineage. As such, we choose to only sell hedgehogs for breeding purposes to reputable USDA breeders or hobby breeders that have a mentor and are an active part of the hedgehog community. We offer the same health warranties & guarantees as most ethical breeders and require a similar application process in order to protect our animals from buyers that are unprepared to provide proper care and homes. We belong to several breeder associations and groups so that we can connect with other breeders, rescues, and hedgehog enthusiast. We are happy to refer you to other breeders or veterinarians in your area and provide you with additional resources to further your own hedgehog knowledge such as the pdf available below of "Pet African Hedgehogs:  A Complete Guide to Care." This book is written by Kimberly Goertzen, a highly experienced hedgehog owner and breeder that has spent years researching and developing products to support the health and well being of pet hedgehogs. We do not recommend Facebook groups or YouTube as an education source. The majority of information found on these type of platforms is based on options, not facts. It can be unreliable and occasionally harmful. Please refer to reliable information sources like the book listed or http://blog.critterconnection.cc

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