The head and body length is approximately 265-390 mm. Weight in captivity ranges from 1.6-2.4 kg. Color varies from grayish brown to reddish brown, with some individuals having dark brown backs and rumps. The pelage is not dense and consists of hairs and spines. Strong white spines arranged longitudinally on the backs of young Tail-less Tenrec are replaced by a crest of rigid hairs in adults.

They have well-developed digits on all four limbs, the forelimbs being shorter than the hind. The body is strong and muscular, and when agitated, the crest of hairs on the spine become erect.

T. ecaudatus is equally at home in both inland plateaus and coastal rainforests. Habitat usually has brush or undergrowth for cover, and a good water source. Nests are generally found under a rock or in a hollow log, but hibernation occurs in a 1-2 meter long underground burrow, which is plugged with soil before the animal goes to sleep. Hibernation takes place during the Southern winter or "dry season."

T. ecaudatus eats small invertebrates which is digs for with its snout, as well as some vegetable matter and small vertebrates. Females have 12 mammae. Gestation is from 56-64 days and young are born in litters averaging 15 individuals. From the age of 3-6 weeks, the young forage with their mother, and may stay together briefly after separating from the mother. Adult Tenrec become solitary after this and forage and hibernate alone.

They are found in all latitudes and phytographic zones: eastern humid forest, central highlands, northern highlands, sambirano, western deciduous forest, and spiny bush in Madagascar; and the Comoro Isls. Introduced on Renunion, Mauritius, and the Seychelle Isls.