Medellín small-eared shrew facts for kids
The Medellín small-eared shrew (Cryptotis medellinia) is a tiny mammal that looks a bit like a mouse, but it's actually more closely related to moles. It lives only in Colombia, a country in South America. This special shrew gets its name from the city of Medellín.
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About the Medellín Small-Eared Shrew
The Medellín small-eared shrew is a very small animal. It belongs to a family of mammals called Soricidae, which includes shrews. These shrews are known for their tiny ears, which are often hidden by their fur.
Where It Lives
This shrew is found only in Colombia. It lives in the northern parts of two mountain ranges: the Western Cordillera and the Central Cordillera. It prefers to live in high places, usually between 2,500 and 2,800 meters (about 8,200 to 9,200 feet) above sea level.
Its Habitat
The Medellín small-eared shrew lives in montane forests. These are forests that grow on mountains. It can also be found in areas where people grow crops. This shows that the shrew can adapt to different environments, even those changed by humans.
Who Eats the Shrew?
Like many small animals, the Medellín small-eared shrew is a food source for other animals. One of its known predators is the crab-eating fox. This means the shrew needs to be careful to avoid being caught by these foxes.
Why "Medellín"?
The scientific name for this shrew is Cryptotis medellinia. The "medellinia" part of its name comes from the city of Medellín in Colombia. This is because the shrew was first discovered or studied in an area near this city.
See also
In Spanish: Musaraña de orejas pequeñas de Medellín para niños
