Identification
The Asian House Shrew is a heavyweight among shrews, often reaching the size of a small rat (up to 15cm long). Look for its velvety, slate-grey to brownish fur and a long, tapered snout that is constantly a-quiver. Unlike a rat, its tail is thick at the base, tapers sharply, and is punctuated by sparse, long, protruding hairs (vibrissae) that act as sensors. Its eyes are tiny and bead-like, while its ears are prominent and rounded, often visible above the fur.
Habitat & Range
Originally native to South Asia, this "commensal" species has hitched rides on trade ships to colonize East Africa, the Middle East, and most of Southeast Asia. They are remarkably adaptable, thriving in tropical forests and agricultural fields, but they are most commonly found in human dwellings. You’ll find them scuttling under floorboards, in lush gardens, or behind kitchen cupboards from sea level up to 2,000 meters.
Behaviour
A nocturnal dynamo, the House Shrew is famous for its "tink-tink" metallic chirps, which sound like two pebbles striking together. They are fiercely territorial and aggressively solitary. If you are lucky enough to spot a mother moving her nest, you’ll witness "caravanning": each juvenile bites the base of the tail of the sibling in front, forming a frantic, fuzzy train led by the mother.
Diet
Fuelled by a frantic metabolism, they are voracious predators. They hunt primarily by scent and touch, devouring cockroaches, crickets, and earthworms. However, they are opportunistic; a hungry shrew will readily tackle small lizards, mice, or even protein-rich kitchen scraps.
Fascinating Fact
In parts of China and Vietnam, this species is known as the "Money Shrew." It is believed that its persistent, high-pitched chittering sounds like the clinking of coins, leading to the folk belief that a shrew entering your home is a harbinger of coming wealth!