The family Tenrecidae comprises small to medium-sized mammals primarily native to Madagascar, with a few species found on the African mainland. Members of this family, known as tenrecs, exhibit remarkable diversity in form and ecology, resembling hedgehogs, shrews, or even otters, despite being only distantly related to these animals—a classic example of convergent evolution. Tenrecs are generally insectivorous, though some species are omnivorous or specialized in other diets. They inhabit a variety of environments, from rainforests to dry forests and savannas, and display unique adaptations such as spiny coats, elongated snouts, and in some species, the ability to hibernate or enter torpor. Social behavior varies widely, with some species being solitary while others show communal nesting. This family highlights Madagascar’s evolutionary uniqueness and contributes significantly to the island’s ecological complexity.