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The Pygmy White-toothed Shrew, is possibly the world’s smallest extant mammal, although some give this title to the bumblebee bat. The body length of this small mammal is only 4-6 cm and its weight is about 2-4 grams. It is found across much of Europe, including the United Kingdom, and parts of Asia.
Pygmy White-toothed Shrews have distinctive, pointed snouts and small, black eyes. They have short, dense fur that is typically gray-brown in color on their backs, and lighter on their underbellies. They are active year-round specially at night, feeding on insects and other small invertebrates such as spiders, beetles, and earthworms.
These shrews are solitary animals and are not highly social, although they may share a nest during the colder months to conserve heat. They construct nests in underground burrows or under vegetation, and they may also use abandoned rodent burrows as shelter.
Pygmy White-toothed Shrews have a high metabolic rate and require a constant supply of food to maintain their energy levels. They have a high rate of reproduction, with females able to produce up to three litters per year, each consisting of 4-6 young.
Because of its small size and elusive nature, it is not well-studied, and more research is needed to understand its behavior and ecology.
