Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Cryptotis
Habitat
This shrew is found in moist montane forests and grasslands in central Mexico, particularly at elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 meters. It prefers areas with dense undergrowth, leaf litter, and moist soil for burrowing and foraging. These habitats provide cover from predators and access to food sources.
Diet
Nelson's small-eared shrew primarily eats insects, earthworms, and other invertebrates like spiders and snails. It forages actively at night using its sensitive snout to detect prey in leaf litter. Due to its high metabolism, it must eat frequently to survive.
Behavior
This shrew is nocturnal and solitary, spending most of its time foraging in leaf litter or under logs. It is territorial, defending small areas with scent markings, and exhibits quick, erratic movements to evade threats. They are known for their high activity levels and occasional vocalizations.
Conservation Status
The IUCN classifies Nelson's small-eared shrew as Least Concern, with a stable population trend. Major threats include habitat loss from deforestation and agricultural expansion.