Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Notiosorex
Habitat
Cockrum's gray shrew inhabits arid and semi-arid regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It prefers desert scrublands, grasslands, and rocky areas with sparse vegetation for cover. These shrews are often found in areas with loose soil for burrowing.
Diet
Cockrum's gray shrew primarily eats insects such as beetles, ants, and crickets, as well as spiders and other small invertebrates. It hunts actively at night using its keen sense of smell, consuming food frequently due to its high metabolic rate. Feeding occurs throughout the night in short bursts.
Behavior
Cockrum's gray shrew is nocturnal and solitary, spending its nights foraging for food in underground tunnels or surface litter. It exhibits territorial behavior, marking areas with scent and avoiding direct confrontations with others of its species. These shrews are highly active with rapid movements and have a voracious feeding habit to sustain their energy.
Conservation Status
Cockrum's gray shrew is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population trend in its range. Major threats include habitat loss from urban development and agriculture, but it is not currently facing significant declines.