A small, squirrel-like mammal found in Southeast Asia, including countries like Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, and parts of southern China. Despite its name, the northern treeshrew isn’t actually a shrew, and it’s not strictly a tree-dweller either. It belongs to a unique group of mammals called Scandentia, which are more closely related to primates than to true shrews. With its pointed snout, big eyes, and long, bushy tail, the northern treeshrew is an agile and curious creature that plays an important role in forest ecosystems, especially in tropical and subtropical woodlands.

This treeshrew is small and slender, with a tail that’s nearly as long as its body. Its fur is short and soft, usually brown or grayish, with lighter underparts and a slightly darker stripe running along its back. Unlike many tree-dwelling animals, the northern treeshrew spends a good deal of time on the ground, although it can climb very well and often moves through low vegetation and underbrush. It uses its sharp claws and nimble feet to scale trees in search of food or to escape predators.

Northern treeshrews are omnivores, feeding on a variety of foods including insects, fruit, seeds, and small invertebrates. They are especially fond of fruit and often act as important seed dispersers in their habitats. They are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. Treeshrews have keen senses of sight and smell, which help them forage for food and avoid danger. They are fast and alert, often darting through the undergrowth with surprising speed and agility.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Bangladesh

2023

Bhutan

2023

Cambodia

2023

China

2023

India

2023

Laos

2023

Malaysia

2023

Myanmar

2023

Thailand

2023

Vietnam

2023