Your wildlife photography guide.

Explore the common tenrec in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.

Where to observe and photograph the common tenrec in the wild

Learn where and when to spot the common tenrec in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the common tenrec’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.

Common tenrec

Scientific name: Tenrec ecaudatus


Common tenrec

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: TENRECIDAE

Group: Mammals

Sensitivity to human approach: Very shy

Minimum approach distance: 10 m

Rut period: May to July

Gestation: 50-60 jours

Births: October to December


Habitat:
Tropical forests, shrublands and agricultural areas

Activity period :
Mainly active at night, generally discreet during the day.

Identification and description:
The common tenrec is a small insectivorous mammal weighing 220–270 g, with coarse fur ranging from light to dark. Endemic to Madagascar, it inhabits tropical forests, shrublands, and agricultural areas. An opportunistic omnivore, it feeds on insects, worms, and small invertebrates. Solitary and nocturnal, it shelters in burrows or under leaf litter during the day.

Recommended lens:
300 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
Photograph the common tenrec preferably at dawn or dusk using a telephoto lens of ≥300 mm from a low hide near the ground. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze its nocturnal movements and shallow depth of field to isolate its fur. Be patient and silent to avoid disturbing this shy animal.

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