Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Crocidura
Habitat
Glass's shrew is primarily found in montane forests and grasslands in central Kenya, at elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 meters. It prefers moist, dense undergrowth for cover and is often associated with areas near streams or with abundant leaf litter. This species avoids open or arid environments.
Diet
Glass's shrew feeds mainly on insects such as beetles and ants, as well as earthworms and other small invertebrates. It forages actively on the ground at night, using its acute sense of smell to locate prey. Feeding is continuous due to its high metabolic rate.
Behavior
Glass's shrew is solitary and territorial, defending small home ranges with scent markings. It is primarily nocturnal, emerging at night to forage and exhibiting rapid, darting movements. This species has a high activity level and may vocalize with high-pitched sounds to communicate.
Conservation Status
The IUCN status of Glass's shrew is Data Deficient due to limited research and data. Major threats include habitat loss from deforestation and potential impacts from climate change.