Etruscan shrew
Suncus etruscus
The Suncus etruscus, commonly known as the Etruscan shrew or the white-toothed pygmy shrew, is a fascinating mammal found in the Comunidad Valenciana and other parts of the Mediterranean region. It holds the distinction of being one of the smallest mammals in the world by mass.
Key characteristics of the Etruscan shrew include:
- Size: It measures about 3.5 to 5.2 centimeters in body length and weighs between 1.2 to 2.7 grams.
- Appearance: The shrew has a slender, elongated body with a pointed snout and white-tipped teeth, which give it its name.
- Coloring: Its fur is typically a mix of gray and brown, blending well with its natural habitat.
- Diet: Being insectivorous, it feeds primarily on small insects and other invertebrates.
- Behavior: The Etruscan shrew has a very high metabolic rate, requiring it to consume large quantities of food relative to its size.
- Habitat: It prefers warm, humid environments and can often be found in various habitats like scrublands and Mediterranean-type shrublands in the Comunidad Valenciana.
This tiny creature plays an essential role in controlling insect populations and maintaining ecological balance within its environment.