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How big is a Shrew?

A Shrew is 100 millimètres

Introduction

Have you ever wondered about the different creatures that occupy our world? Among them are shrews, small, mole-like mammals that may look like long-nosed mice but are actually closer relatives of hedgehogs and moles. These fascinating creatures may be small in size, but they’re big in intrigue. This article will take you on a journey to discover the size of shrews, compare them to familiar objects, and share some remarkable facts about these tiny mammals.

Size of Shrews

When we think of small animals, we might think of creatures like hamsters or mice. But shrews are even smaller! The average shrew is typically around 3 to 4 inches long, including its tail. That’s about the size of a standard sticky note! To give you a better idea:

  • A shrew is approximately as long as a credit card.
  • It’s about the same length as a large paperclip when it’s straightened out.
  • It’s nearly as long as two standard AA batteries placed end to end. Isn’t it surprising that a living creature can be so small?

Shrews Versus Other Small Mammals

While shrews are similar in size to many other small mammals, they tend to be on the smaller end of the scale.

  • A mouse, for example, is typically 3.5 to 4 inches long without its tail, making it slightly larger than the average shrew.
  • Hamsters are also larger, with the average pet hamster measuring about 5 to 6 inches long.
  • Among their small mammal relatives, hedgehogs are considerably larger, with an average size of 9 to 10 inches long.

Fascinating Facts About Shrews

Apart from their size, there are several other interesting things about shrews that are worth knowing.

  • Shrews have sharp, spike-like teeth, unlike rodents that have gnawing front incisor teeth. This helps them eat insects and other small animals.
  • Shrews are found almost all over the world, including in major tropical and temperate land masses. However, there are no native shrews in New Guinea, Australia, and New Zealand.
  • Despite their small size, shrews have a voracious appetite. They need to eat 80-90% of their body weight in food each day to survive!
  • Shrews have a very high metabolic rate. This means they are very active and energetic, despite their small size.

Conclusion

So, next time you see a small creature scurrying around, take a closer look – it might just be a shrew! Even though they’re tiny – about the size of a credit card – shrews are fascinating creatures with sharp teeth, a huge appetite, and a wide distribution around the world. Remember, big things often come in small packages, and shrews are no exception!

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