Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Afrosoricida
- Family
- Tenrecidae
- Genus
- Microgale
Habitat
This species inhabits humid forests and montane regions in eastern Madagascar, preferring areas with dense undergrowth and leaf litter. It is typically found at elevations between 800 and 2000 meters, avoiding open or arid areas.
Diet
Drouhard's shrew tenrec primarily feeds on insects such as beetles, ants, and earthworms, which it forages from the forest floor and leaf litter. It is nocturnal, actively hunting at night using its keen sense of smell and hearing. Feeding behavior includes quick, darting movements to capture prey.
Behavior
Drouhard's shrew tenrec is solitary and nocturnal, spending the day in burrows or hidden nests in leaf litter. It exhibits territorial behavior, marking areas with scent glands, and is generally quiet but may emit high-pitched sounds when threatened. This species is agile and adept at navigating through dense vegetation.
Conservation Status
Drouhard's shrew tenrec is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN due to habitat loss from deforestation and agricultural expansion. Population trends are declining, with major threats including fragmentation of forest habitats.