Tiny Shrew Discovered in Ethiopia Weighs Just 3 Grams

A remarkable new shrew species, named Crocidura stanleyi, has been discovered in the Ethiopian highlands. This tiny mammal, weighing approximately 3 grams and measuring about 5 centimeters in body length, is one of the smallest shrew species globally. Its formal description was made possible by fieldwork conducted in 2015 by the late evolutionary biologist William Stanley.

The diminutive size of Crocidura stanleyi presented a considerable challenge for researchers, as standard trapping methods for larger rodents were ineffective. Scientists employed pitfall trapping, a technique involving ground-level buckets, to successfully capture specimens. This method was crucial in obtaining the necessary comparison points to confirm the shrew as a distinct new species.

Confirmed records for Crocidura stanleyi are primarily located within the Simien Mountains National Park, an area identified as a hotspot for the species. It also inhabits various Ethiopian Highland locales, indicating adaptability to diverse high-altitude environments. The discovery underscores the rich biodiversity of the Eastern Afromontane region and the importance of continued ecological surveys.

This finding is significant as it emphasizes that new species continue to be identified, even in well-studied areas. The existence of such small, overlooked mammals highlights potential extinction risks before their formal recognition. Protecting their habitats is therefore crucial for their long-term survival and for maintaining the intricate ecosystems they inhabit.