Greater long-tailed shrew tenrec facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Greater long-tailed shrew tenrec |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Microgale
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| Species: |
principula
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| Greater long-tailed shrew tenrec range | |
The greater long-tailed shrew tenrec (Microgale principula) is a small mammal that belongs to the Tenrecidae family. It lives only on the island of Madagascar. Its natural home is in warm, wet forests.
Where Does It Live?
The greater long-tailed shrew tenrec lives in eastern Madagascar. It can be found high up in the mountains, from about 440 to 1950 meters (1,440 to 6,400 feet) above sea level. Its home stretches from a place called Marojejy all the way south to Andohahela. This animal likes to live in trees. It can be found in forests that have not been touched much, as well as in forests that are a little changed by people.
Ancient Discoveries in Andrahomana Cave
Scientists have found bones of the greater long-tailed shrew tenrec in a cave. This cave is called Andrahomana and is on the southern coast of Madagascar. Along with this tenrec, bones of seven other Microgale tenrec species were found. They also found bones of very old, extinct birds. These birds included elephant birds and a type of Malagasy sheldgoose. The sheldgoose was a waterbird, which suggests there might have been a large freshwater lake or river nearby a long time ago. This means the area was probably wetter in the past. These animals might have fallen into the cave through openings in the roof. Today, this cave is outside the area where the greater long-tailed shrew tenrec lives.
Is This Animal Safe?
The greater long-tailed shrew tenrec faces some dangers. Wildfires are a risk to its home. People also cut down its forest habitat for wood or to turn it into farmland. However, this animal lives in a very wide area. It is also common in many places, so there are likely many of them. Plus, it lives in several protected areas where its home is safe. Because of this, the International Union for Conservation of Nature says its conservation status is "least concern". This means it is not currently in danger of disappearing.
