Colombian small-eared shrew facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Colombian small-eared shrew |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Cryptotis
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| Species: |
colombiana
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| Colombian small-eared shrew range | |
The Colombian small-eared shrew (Cryptotis colombiana) is a tiny mammal that belongs to the Soricidae family, also known as shrews. It is a special animal because it is endemic to Colombia. This means it is found only in Colombia and nowhere else in the world!
This shrew lives in the Central Mountain Range in the Antioquia Department of Colombia. It prefers high places, from about 1,750 to 2,800 m (5,740 to 9,190 ft) above sea level. You can find it in montane forests, which are forests that grow on mountains, and also in areas where people grow crops. The Colombian small-eared shrew looks quite similar to another shrew called C. brachyonyx.
What is a Shrew?
Shrews are small, mouse-like mammals, but they are not rodents. They are actually more closely related to hedgehogs and moles. Shrews are known for their tiny eyes, long snouts, and very fast metabolism. This means they need to eat a lot of food to stay alive!
Where Does it Live?
The Colombian small-eared shrew lives in the cool, misty mountain forests of Colombia. These forests are rich in plant life and provide plenty of places for the shrew to hide and find food. It can also be found in areas where people farm, showing it can adapt to different environments.
Why is it Special?
Being endemic to Colombia makes this shrew very unique. It is a part of Colombia's amazing biodiversity. Scientists study animals like the Colombian small-eared shrew to understand more about how different species live and how we can protect them.
See also
- Cryptotis colombiana para niños (in Spanish)
