Madras treeshrew

An Indian shrews ( Anathana ellioti )

The Indian shrews ( Anathana ellioti ), also known as Madras tree shrew is a mammal of the family tree shrews ( Tupaiidae ). It is the only member of the genus Anathana and differs from the other tree shrews by large, hairy ears and details in the skull structure and teeth.

Indian shrews are located south of the Ganges River in India and thus have the westernmost area of ​​distribution of all tree shrews. Their habitat is forests and rocky areas, in contrast to many authentics shrews they avoid human settlements more.

These animals can reach a body length 18-20 inches, her tail is as long as the body, and its weight is around 160 grams. Their fur is reddish to yellowish on the upper side, sometimes whitish patterned, especially in broad shoulder stripes. The underside is generally brighter.

They are diurnal and retire for the night in crevices or burrows. You can climb well, but keep rare trees on, but prefer rocky terrain. These animals live solitary. Their diet consists of insects such as butterflies and caterpillars and ants and fruit.

The main threat to the Indian shrews will be the loss of its habitat through deforestation and conversion of their habitat in fields and settlements. The IUCN lists them as not at risk.