Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Crocidura
Habitat
This shrew inhabits montane forests and high-altitude grasslands in the Albertine Rift region of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. It prefers moist, dense undergrowth with plenty of leaf litter and rocks for cover, typically at elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 meters.
Diet
The Kivu long-haired shrew primarily feeds on insects such as beetles, ants, and earthworms, as well as other small invertebrates like spiders and centipedes. It forages actively at night, using its keen sense of smell to locate prey in leaf litter and soil. Feeding occurs frequently due to its high metabolic rate, often multiple times per hour.
Behavior
This shrew is primarily nocturnal and solitary, spending its active hours foraging for food in dense vegetation. It exhibits territorial behavior, marking areas with scent and avoiding direct confrontations with others of its species. Notable behaviors include rapid, darting movements and a high level of activity to maintain its energy needs.
Conservation Status
The IUCN classifies the Kivu long-haired shrew as Least Concern, with a stable population trend, though habitat loss from deforestation poses a potential threat. No major conservation efforts are currently in place due to its wide distribution and common status.