About Myosorex varius (Smuts, 1832)
Size and Mass
The forest shrew, Myosorex varius, grows to a total length of approximately 12.5 cm (5 in), with a tail length of 4.3 cm (1.7 in), and has an average mass of around 12 g (0.4 oz).
Sexual Size Dimorphism
In KwaZulu-Natal and the Drakensberg region, males are larger than females. However, in the Cape Colony, individuals of both sexes are similar in size.
Fur and Coloration
This shrew has a coat of short, dense fur: it is dark grey or brown on its upper body, and paler on its underbelly.
Native Range
The forest shrew is native to South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini.
Population Abundance
It is often the most common small mammal in upland areas, but it is less common in coastal areas.
Habitat Range
It can be found in a wide variety of both primary and secondary habitats, including forests, grassland, scrub, semidesert, karoo, and fynbos.
