Lesser musk shrew

Introduction: The lesser red musk shrew (Crocidura hirta) is a predominately nocturnal creature, known to be fairly active in the morning and at dusk. Their habitat range is reasonably diverse: from mountain forest, savannah and Kalahari woodland to bushveld,and in debris such as garden refuse or dead wood. Self-grooming is done by scratching itself with the hindfeet and using the forepaws for face-washing. They make saucer shaped nests from grass, usually under cover. Predators include the grass owl and the barn owl, as well as the black-necked cobra.

Distribution: North-eastern and south-eastern Kalahari Desert areas of Namibia. Zambezi Region (formerly the Caprivi Strip), Chobe River and Okavango Delta.

Diet: Snails and termites.

Colouring: Creamish-brown fur.

Breeding: Male and female lesser red musk shrews breed between September to May. Gestation period is around 22 days and litter sizes are between 2 and 5.

Size: Head and body length 90mm, tail 50mm 

Weight: 16g