Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Crocidura
Habitat
This shrew inhabits a variety of environments in Europe and North Africa, including grasslands, forests, scrublands, and even urban areas. It prefers areas with dense vegetation and moist soil for cover and foraging. They are adaptable to different terrains as long as there is ample invertebrate prey.
Diet
The Greater white-toothed shrew primarily eats insects, spiders, earthworms, and other small invertebrates. It hunts actively at night using its acute sense of smell and touch. Due to its high metabolism, it must consume food equivalent to its body weight daily.
Behavior
Greater white-toothed shrews are nocturnal and solitary, spending their nights foraging and establishing small territories. They are highly active with a rapid metabolism, often making high-pitched squeaks for communication. They exhibit aggressive territorial behavior, especially during mating season.
Conservation Status
The IUCN status of the Greater white-toothed shrew is Least Concern, with a stable population trend across its range. Major threats include habitat loss from urbanization and agriculture, but it remains widespread.