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McCarthy's Shrew

McCarthy's Shrew

Honduras
Status
Unknown

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
Forest, Mountain

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
seeds, plant shoots, grasses, and wild berries

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
crepuscular

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

Description. A small Sorex, measurements of the holotype: TOT 111, Tail 51.5, HF 13, EL 7.5, 4.22 g, CBL 17.05, GLS 17.68, LR 7.55, PL 7.15, LUT 2.45, LMT 4.25, CB 8.12, WM 2 4.60, LIB, 3.90, DB 5.15, LM 7.15, HC 3.21. U 3 is subequal in size to U 4. The lower first incisor has a single pigmented denticle. The anteriomedial tine on the first upper incisor is above the pigmented region. S. mccarthyi has a short unicuspid toothrow relative to skull width and depth as compared to S. cristobalensis and S. salvini and S. sclateri. It is larger in all measurements than S. stizodon, but smaller than other species of the group. Ecology. Sorex mccarthyi is known only from the cloud forest at an upper elevation (2560 m) on Cerro Celaque, Honduras. Mammalian associates include: Cryptotis goodwini, Heteromys desmarestianus, Peromyscus oaxacensis, P. beatae, P. mexicanus, Reithrodontomys mexicanus, and Scotinomys teguina (unpublished manuscript). Nothing is known about its reproduction. Specimens examined (1). The holotype.
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of McCarthy's Shrew is officially designated as Unknown. Current field registries estimate a global population composed of an unquantified number of individuals, making habitat preservation critical to maintaining their wild populations.

It is typically endemic to forest, mountain, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of seeds, plant shoots, grasses, and wild berries. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a crepuscular activity pattern, optimizing its energy conservation and interactions within its native ecosystem. The species has a typical natural lifespan of approximately 15 years, allowing it to adapt and mature through structured generational cycles.

Ongoing biological monitoring and ecological advocacy emphasize the importance of protecting this species. The stability of its food chain and the prevention of fragmentation in its primary range are vital for the continued survival of McCarthy's Shrew.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeHonduras
Habitat RangeForest, Mountain
Lifespan15 Yrs
StatusUnknown
ScientificSorex mccarthyi
Registry Info
Lifespan15 years
KingdomAnimalia
FamilySoricidae
McCarthy-Spitzmaus (Sorex mccarthyi) - Taxon, Habitat & Photos | Symphony of Horizon | Symphony of Horizon