Tuesday, July 28, 2026
This is the first successful breeding of the species at the Aquarium
Virginia Beach, VA – The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is celebrating the first successful birth of a lesser Madagascar tenrec in the institution’s history—a significant milestone that advances the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP). The baby was born on June 29 weighing only 11 grams and approximately an inch long. Gestation for tenrecs is around two months, and the Virginia Aquarium’s animal care and veterinary staff were monitoring the expecting mother throughout her pregnancy and overnight for two weeks leading up to her anticipated due date. The mother, Elise, and the baby are both doing well.
The AZA’s SSP Program helps sustain species populations for accredited zoos and aquariums. This successful birth strengthened the managed population of lesser Madagascar tenrecs in North America; representing an important contribution to the collaborative conservation work of AZA accredited facilities. These breeding plans support population biodiversity through exceptional animal care, scientific collaboration, and conservation education.
Elise is nine years old and was born at the Virginia Zoo and has been at the Aquarium since 2018. The male tenrec and father, named Squash, is six years old and came from the Abilene Zoo in 2023. Squash and Elise are both part of the Aquarium’s Animal Ambassador Program; participating in various education programs and gallery presentations.
During her pregnancy, Elise received ultrasounds and radiographs regularly to monitor development. Staff checked on her frequently throughout the day and used cameras to monitor her behavior overnight. Elise received an adjusted diet from our nutritionist to accommodate her changing nutritional needs and was also given various nesting material for her to choose how and where to build her nest.
The tenrec baby will be cared for at the Virginia Aquarium until it is given a permanent home at a fellow AZA-accredited facility. After the baby has weaned, the Virginia Aquarium animal care team will begin behavioral training and enrichment with the tenrec. This gives the tenrec time to become comfortable around people in preparation for travel to its future home where it’ll become an ambassador for the species.
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center’s mission is to connect people to the marine environment, inspiring a more sustainable future. The Aquarium aspires to be a driver in conservation, education, tourism, and sustainability, leading the charge to save wildlife and their ecosystems. Owned by the City of Virginia Beach, the Aquarium operates as a city department in partnership with the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Foundation. The Aquarium is proud to be an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports the work of the Virginia Aquarium. The Foundation procures and maintains the Aquarium's exhibits, including the animals and habitats. It is also responsible for annual and capital fundraising, administration and funding for the Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program, conservation and scientific research efforts, and the Aquarium's mission-related education programs. You can be a part of our mission by making a tax-deductible donation to support our programming.
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