Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Crocidura
Habitat
Polia's shrew inhabits moist lowland forests and grasslands in central Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It prefers areas with dense vegetation and proximity to water sources, such as streams or swamps. These environments provide cover and abundant prey.
Diet
Polia's shrew primarily eats insects like beetles and ants, as well as earthworms and other invertebrates. It forages actively at night using its keen sense of smell to locate food. Due to its high metabolism, it consumes food equivalent to its body weight daily.
Behavior
Polia's shrew is nocturnal and solitary, spending nights foraging over wide areas for food. It exhibits territorial behavior, marking its range with scent glands, and is highly active with quick movements to evade threats. These shrews have a rapid metabolism, leading to frequent feeding and short rest periods.
Conservation Status
Polia's shrew is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population trend. Major threats include habitat loss from deforestation and agricultural expansion.