Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Paracrocidura
Habitat
This species inhabits montane forests and highland grasslands in central Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It prefers moist, dense undergrowth areas with plenty of cover, often at elevations between 1,000 and 2,500 meters. These environments provide ample insects and protection from predators.
Diet
The Lesser large-headed shrew primarily feeds on insects such as beetles, ants, and earthworms, as well as other small invertebrates. 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, requiring constant energy intake.
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 encounters with others of its kind. Notable behaviors include rapid, darting movements and a high-pitched vocalization used for communication.
Conservation Status
The IUCN Red List classifies the Lesser large-headed shrew as Data Deficient due to limited data on its population size and trends. Major threats likely include habitat loss from deforestation and agricultural expansion in central Africa.