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, leaf litter, and moist soil. It is typically found at elevations between 800 and 2000 meters, avoiding open or degraded habitats.
Diet
Jenkins' shrew tenrec primarily eats insects such as beetles, ants, and earthworms, along with other small invertebrates. It forages actively at night on the forest floor, using its keen sense of smell to locate prey hidden in leaf litter.
Behavior
Jenkins' shrew tenrec is nocturnal and solitary, spending its nights foraging alone in the undergrowth. It exhibits territorial behavior, marking its range with scent glands, and is generally elusive, relying on quick movements to evade threats. They do not form social groups and communicate mainly through vocalizations and scents.
Conservation Status
Jenkins' shrew tenrec is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN due to ongoing habitat loss from deforestation and agricultural expansion. Population trends indicate a decline, with major threats including fragmentation of forest habitats.