Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Sorex
Habitat
This shrew inhabits montane forests and grasslands in central Mexico, particularly in the Zacatecas region, at elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 meters. It prefers moist areas with dense vegetation, such as under logs or in leaf litter, where it can find shelter and prey.
Diet
The Zacatecas shrew primarily eats insects like beetles and ants, as well as earthworms and other small invertebrates. It is an active forager, hunting day and night with a high metabolic rate that requires frequent feeding. Feeding occurs opportunistically whenever prey is available.
Behavior
Zacatecas shrews are solitary and territorial, marking their areas with scent and aggressively defending them from intruders. They are primarily nocturnal, spending the day in burrows or under debris, and exhibit rapid, darting movements while foraging. Their high energy levels lead to constant activity, and they communicate through high-pitched vocalizations.
Conservation Status
The IUCN classifies the Zacatecas shrew as Least Concern, with a stable population trend, though habitat loss from agriculture poses a potential threat.