Meet This New Creature That Looks Like A Cross Between A Hedgehog And A Bumblebee
A lot of strange-looking and unusual animals can be spotted in the rainforests of Madagascar. They may be small and rustling in the leaves.
This particular unusual animal was spotted in the same rainforest in Madagascar. At first glance, it resembles a mixture of a hedgehog and a shrew.
However, its colors and stripes on its body are reminiscent of those of a bumblebee. This bright coloration makes it more visible.
These little creatures are called Lowland Streaked Tenrecs. They are extremely adorable, and their bodies are covered with spikes similar to those of a hedgehog.
Their characteristics are also very similar to those of a hedgehog. For protection, they curl themselves into the shape of a ball.
It also releases its spines in case of danger.
If it senses a predator, it arranges the spines on its neck and head into a mohawk and attacks headfirst. It may release its quills if necessary, and they grow back quickly as well.
The spines of tenrecs also act as a communication device.
Similar to grasshoppers and crickets, they use a method called stridulation to communicate within their family group. They generate high-pitched vibrations by rubbing the special spines located on their backs.
These vibrations can only be heard and understood by other tenrecs. Tenrecs are the only animals that resemble mice and produce such vibrations.
The tenrecs mate during the rainy season.
They locate and court a partner through a method that involves a sniffing ritual. Amazingly, they can have around 11 offspring each year, and both parents look after them.
They have a rapid growth rate and are ready to leave their burrows just a week after being born. It takes only a month for them to mature.
While the Lowland Streaked Tenrecs may not be an endangered species yet, they are close to losing their natural habitat. If the forest disappears, they may also become endangered.
They are not widely known, as they are only found in specific locations. However, their impressive hairstyle and unusual communication are helping them gain many fans.
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