Armoured Hero Shrew (Scutisorex somereni) — Least Concern Mammalia

Armoured Hero Shrew

Scutisorex somereni

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mammalia · Soricomorpha · Soricidae

About

The hero shrew, also known as the armored shrew, is a large shrew native to the Congo Basin of Africa. Its features are typical of a white-toothed shrew − short legs, slender snout, dense fur − except for a highly unusual spinal column. It has corrugated interlocking vertebrae that are unique among mammals except for its sister species, Thor's hero shrew. This unique adaptation allows the animal to bear a huge amount of weight on its back − 72 kg (159 lb) according to an expedition team.

Fun Fact

Its features are typical of a white-toothed shrew − short legs, slender snout, dense fur − except for a highly unusual spinal column.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Lives in both lowland and mountain forests.

Diet

Insectivore

Lifespan

To be updated

Threats

  • Habitat Change
  • Human Disturbance

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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