Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Cryptotis
Habitat
This shrew inhabits montane forests and moist woodlands in central Mexico, particularly in areas with dense undergrowth and leaf litter. It prefers elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 meters, often near streams or in damp soil for easy burrowing.
Diet
It primarily feeds on insects such as beetles and ants, as well as earthworms and other invertebrates. This nocturnal forager uses its keen sense of smell to hunt actively at night, consuming food frequently due to its high metabolic rate.
Behavior
The Big Mexican small-eared shrew is solitary and highly territorial, marking its area with scent and aggressively defending it from intruders. It is nocturnal, spending days in burrows and nights foraging rapidly to meet its energy needs. This species exhibits quick, erratic movements and vocalizations when threatened.
Conservation Status
The IUCN classifies the Big Mexican small-eared shrew as Least Concern, with a stable population trend. Major threats include habitat loss from deforestation and agricultural expansion in Mexico.