Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Crocidura
Habitat
The ultimate shrew inhabits moist forests, grasslands, and shrublands in Southeast Asia, often near water sources. It prefers areas with dense vegetation and undergrowth for cover and foraging. This species avoids open or arid environments.
Diet
The ultimate shrew primarily consumes insects, earthworms, and small invertebrates, which it hunts using its acute sense of smell. It feeds frequently throughout the night due to its high metabolic rate, often capturing prey with quick, darting movements. Foraging occurs in leaf litter or soil.
Behavior
Ultimate shrews are solitary and territorial, defending small home ranges with scent markings and vocalizations. They are primarily nocturnal, emerging at night to forage actively with high energy levels. These shrews often create simple burrows or use existing cover for nesting and resting.
Conservation Status
The ultimate shrew is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population trend. Major threats include habitat destruction from deforestation and agricultural expansion.