Etruscan shrew

Meet the world’s smallest mammal but a fierce predator

Lies Van Rompaey


Etruscan shrew

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Meet the world’s smallest mammal but a fierce predator

Population

One of the world’s smallest mammals, this diminutive creature, with a body length averaging around 4 cm (approximately 2 inches) and weighing in at a mere 2 grams (about 0.071 ounces), might easily be overlooked. Yet, what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in its dynamic and voracious predatory lifestyle. With its disproportionately large head and sharp, pointed snout, this tiny mammal is an agile hunter capable of taking down prey much larger than itself.

Despite its small stature, the Etruscan shrew leads an incredibly active life. It is primarily insectivorous, feeding on a diet of insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates. However, its appetite can extend to small vertebrates, showcasing its prowess as a formidable predator in its microcosm. The Etruscan shrew’s metabolism is remarkably high, necessitating almost constant foraging to sustain its energy needs. This high metabolic rate means the shrew must consume nearly twice its body weight in food daily, a feat that underscores its need for a rich and abundant habitat.

The shrew’s hunting technique is as fascinating as its dietary needs. It relies on its highly developed sense of touch, facilitated by vibrissae (whiskers) that cover its snout and body, allowing it to detect prey through air and ground vibrations. Once a potential meal is detected, the Etruscan shrew employs its lightning-fast reflexes to capture and subdue its catch. This incredible speed and agility make it a successful hunter, able to survive in various environments.

The Etruscan shrew inhabits a wide range of habitats, from the Mediterranean shrublands and forests of Southern Europe to the dense underbrush of Malaysia and North Africa. Its ability to thrive in diverse environments is a testament to its adaptability and resilience. However, this adaptability is tested by the growing habitat loss and fragmentation threat.

Distribution

Country
Population est.
Status
Year
Comments
Afghanistan
2016
Albania
2016
Algeria
2016
Andorra
2016
Presence Uncertain
Armenia
2016
Presence Uncertain
Azerbaijan
2016
Bahrain
2016
Bhutan
2016
Bosnia And Herz.
2016
Brunei
2016
Presence Uncertain
Bulgaria
2016
China
2016
Croatia
2016
Cyprus
2016
Egypt
2016
Ethiopia
2016
France
2016
Georgia
2016
Gibraltar
2016
Presence Uncertain
Greece
2016
Guinea
2016
India
2016
Indonesia
2016
Presence Uncertain
Iran
2016
Iraq
2016
Israel
2016
Italy
2016
Jordan
2016
Kuwait
2016
Presence Uncertain
Laos
2016
Lebanon
2016
Libya
2016
Madagascar
2016
Introduced
Malaysia
2016
Malta
2016
Monaco
2016
Presence Uncertain
Montenegro
2016
Morocco
2016
Myanmar
2016
Nepal
2016
Nigeria
2016
North Macedonia
2016
Oman
2016
Pakistan
2016
Portugal
2016
Slovenia
2016
Spain
2016
Introduced: Canary Is.
Sri Lanka
2016
Syria
2016
Tajikistan
2016
Thailand
2016
Tunisia
2016
Turkey
2016
Turkmenistan
2016
Uzbekistan
2016
Presence Uncertain
Vietnam
2016
Yemen
2016

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Terrestrial / Aquatic

Altricial / Precocial

Polygamous / Monogamous

Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic

Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal

Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd

Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore

Migratory: Yes / No

Domesticated: Yes / No

Dangerous: Yes / No