Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Crocidura
Habitat
This species inhabits grasslands, forests, and agricultural areas across Europe and North Africa, often preferring moist environments like riverbanks and hedgerows. It is adaptable to various terrains, including gardens and suburban areas, as long as there is sufficient cover and prey availability. They are commonly found at lower elevations up to about 2,000 meters.
Diet
The Lesser white-toothed shrew primarily eats insects such as beetles and spiders, along with earthworms and other small invertebrates. It is an active hunter, foraging day and night due to its high metabolism, and consumes up to its body weight in food daily. Feeding behavior involves quick, darting movements to capture prey in leaf litter or soil.
Behavior
Lesser white-toothed shrews are solitary and territorial, defending small areas with scent markings and vocalizations. They are primarily nocturnal, emerging at night to forage actively with rapid movements, and spend the day in burrows or under debris. Notable behaviors include a high-pitched squeak for communication and a constant need to eat due to their fast metabolism.
Conservation Status
The IUCN classifies the Lesser white-toothed shrew as Least Concern, with a stable population trend across its range. Major threats include habitat loss from urbanization and intensive agriculture, but it remains widespread and adaptable.