Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Suncus
Habitat
This shrew primarily inhabits montane and lowland forests in Borneo, including both primary and secondary growth areas. It prefers moist environments with dense undergrowth and leaf litter, often at elevations from 300 to 2000 meters. They are adaptable but rely on forested terrain for shelter and food.
Diet
The Bornean pygmy shrew feeds mainly on insects, earthworms, and other small invertebrates like spiders and centipedes. It hunts actively using its keen sense of smell, primarily at night to avoid predators. Due to its high metabolism, it must eat frequently, consuming up to its body weight in food daily.
Behavior
Bornean pygmy shrews are solitary and territorial, marking their areas with scent and defending them from intruders. They are primarily nocturnal, emerging at night to forage and exhibiting rapid, darting movements. These shrews are highly active hunters, using tunnels and burrows for shelter during the day.
Conservation Status
The IUCN lists the Bornean pygmy shrew as Vulnerable due to ongoing habitat loss from deforestation and agriculture. Population trends are decreasing, with major threats including logging and fragmentation of forest habitats.