Fun Fact Friday!

It's fun fact Friday!

Did you know that scientists have recently uncovered five new species of soft-furred hedgehogs in the landscapes of southeast Asia?

Active during both day and night, these hedgehogs, with their insect and fruit-based diet, play a crucial role in the ecological balance. In a recent study led by the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and University of Seville, researchers not only discovered two entirely new species but also elevated three subspecies through a meticulous analysis of DNA and physical characteristics.

Among the new discoveries, the Hylomys macarong, named after a Vietnamese word for vampire (Ma cà rồng), boasts long fangs and resides exclusively in southern Vietnam.

Exciting discoveries like these show there's still so much to learn about our wild world!

Read more about these critters here