Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Crocidura
Habitat
Grasse's shrew inhabits moist forests and savannas in Central Africa, particularly in regions like Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They prefer areas with dense undergrowth and leaf litter for cover, avoiding open or arid environments.
Diet
Grasse's shrew primarily feeds on insects such as beetles, ants, and earthworms, which it hunts actively in leaf litter and soil. They are nocturnal foragers with a high metabolic rate, requiring frequent meals throughout the night.
Behavior
Grasse's shrew is solitary and nocturnal, spending its days hidden in burrows or under logs and emerging at night to forage. They exhibit territorial behavior, marking areas with scent and using high-pitched calls for navigation, and are known for their rapid, darting movements.
Conservation Status
Grasse's shrew is classified as Data Deficient by the IUCN, with population trends unknown due to limited research; major threats may include habitat loss from deforestation in Central Africa.