Four-Toed Elephant Shrew
(Petrodromus Tetradactylus)
- Length 20cm
- Weight 200 gm
- Breeding Up to 2 young
The name of these shrews comes from their elongated and mobile snout (like a very tiny elephant’s trunk) and the unusual feature of having only four toes on the hind feet. The hair on the upper parts is rufous-grey and there is a white ring around each eye. The upper parts are buff-white. The hind legs are considerably longer than the front ones, giving a kangaroo-like appearance.
They live in holes in the ground or under tree roots. Usually found
singly or in pairs, they make distinct runs through the undergrowth
between their resting places and feeding areas. The Elephant shrew
mainly eats ants and other insects. Movement is by walking on all
fours or hopping on the hind feet. When alarmed, they may stamp their
feet and emit a shrill squeak.
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