Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Chodsigoa
Habitat
Van Sung's shrew inhabits montane forests in northern Vietnam, typically at elevations above 2,000 meters. It prefers cool, moist environments with dense undergrowth and leaf litter, avoiding open or disturbed areas.
Diet
Van Sung's shrew primarily feeds on insects, earthworms, and other small invertebrates. It forages actively at night using its acute sense of smell, consuming food frequently due to its high metabolic rate.
Behavior
Van Sung's shrew is solitary and territorial, marking its area with scent and avoiding others of its kind except during mating. It is primarily nocturnal, spending the day in burrows or under logs, and exhibits rapid, darting movements while foraging. This species has a high activity level to meet its energy needs.
Conservation Status
Van Sung's shrew is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN due to habitat loss from deforestation and fragmentation. Population trends are decreasing, with major threats including agriculture and climate change.