Kinabalu shrew facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kinabalu shrew |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Crocidura
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| Species: |
baluensis
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| Kinabalu shrew range | |
The Kinabalu shrew (Crocidura baluensis) is a type of small mammal. It belongs to the Soricidae family. This special shrew lives only on Mount Kinabalu in Borneo. It also lives on Mount Tambuyukon, a nearby mountain. This means it is endemic to these mountains.
The Kinabalu shrew looks a bit like another mountain shrew from Sumatra. However, scientists have studied their genes. They found that the Kinabalu shrew is closely related to the Bornean shrew. The Bornean shrew lives on the lower parts of Mount Kinabalu. The Kinabalu shrew takes over at higher elevations. It lives above 1,500 meters (about 4,900 feet).
Kinabalu shrews are bigger than the Bornean shrews found lower down. They also have longer hair. This helps them stay warm in the colder mountain weather. It is a good example of how animals adapt to their environment.
Where the Kinabalu Shrew Lives
The Kinabalu shrew is found only on Mount Kinabalu. It lives in different types of forests there. These include montane rain forests, also called cloud forests. It also lives in higher areas with shrubs and meadows.
Mountain Habitats
You can find this shrew from about 1,600 meters (5,200 feet) up to 3,700 meters (12,100 feet) high. It lives in forests that have not been touched by humans. It can also be found in forests that have been changed or are growing back. Sometimes, it lives in areas with just scrubland.
Other Locations
The Kinabalu shrew is also found in grasslands. These grasslands are in the Kelabit Highlands. They are located above 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) in elevation.
