Pygmy shrew tenrec facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pygmy shrew tenrec |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Microgale
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| Species: |
parvula
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| Pygmy shrew tenrec range | |
| Synonyms | |
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Microgale pulla Jenkins, 1988 |
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The pygmy shrew tenrec (Microgale parvula) is a tiny mammal that looks a bit like a shrew. It belongs to the Tenrecidae family. This special animal is found only on the island of Madagascar. It lives in warm, wet forests. While it is not in immediate danger, its numbers are slowly going down. This is because its natural home is shrinking due to habitat loss. Scientists are watching it closely.
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Where Does the Pygmy Shrew Tenrec Live?
This small tenrec lives in many parts of Madagascar. You can find it from the southern tip all the way to the northern peninsula. It is one of the few rodent-like animals that live in this area. This part of the island has fewer different kinds of animals. The pygmy shrew tenrec mostly stays in untouched forest areas. It can live at different heights, from 100 to 1,990 meters above sea level.
What Does the Pygmy Shrew Tenrec Eat?
Like most other tenrecs, the pygmy shrew tenrec is an insectivore. This means it loves to eat insects! Its diet is made up of the many different kinds of bugs and insects found in Madagascar.
When Was the Pygmy Shrew Tenrec Discovered?
Scientists first officially described this species in 1934. A scientist named G. Grandidier was the one who cataloged it. For a long time, not much was known about how many of these tenrecs existed. In 1996, it was listed as "Endangered." This meant it was in serious danger of disappearing. However, in 2006, scientists found more information. They changed its status to "Least Concern." This means it is not currently in immediate danger.
How Does the Pygmy Shrew Tenrec Behave?
The pygmy shrew tenrec is a nocturnal animal. This means it is most active at night. It hunts for its food when the sun goes down. It uses its excellent senses of sight and hearing to find and catch prey. While it might also use its sense of smell, its night vision is very important for hunting.
Amazing Senses of the Pygmy Shrew Tenrec
Shrew tenrecs generally have very large ears. The pygmy shrew tenrec is no different! Its big, swiveling ears listen carefully for the tiny sounds of insects nearby. Once it hears something, its small but sharp teeth quickly snap out to catch the tasty bug.
Pygmy Shrew Tenrec Reproduction
Like most mammals, this tenrec is polygynous. This means that male tenrecs will mate with two or more female tenrecs. This helps make sure that many baby tenrecs are born. Scientists are still learning how male and female pygmy shrew tenrecs choose their mates.
