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Historically,
elephant shrews were believed to be members of the order
Insectivora. Recent findings indicate that they may
share a phylogenetic relationship with aardvarks, hyraxes,
manatees, and elephants. This group is small and only
represented by 1 family known as Macroscelidae. Most
scientists recognize around 20 living species. These
creatures inhabit a variety of habitats in North Africa
and may also be found south of the Sahara Desert.
Elephant
shrews are characterized by their long snouts and large
set of eyes and ears. They are superbly adapted for
jumping with hind limbs considerably longer than their
front appendages. Some species are capable of jumping
considerable distances for their size. The animals may
range in size from a small mouse to an average-sized
squirrel and a few species may even exhibit brilliant
color patterns.
Elephant
shrews tend to lead a nocturnal existence and feed primarily
on insects, fruit, and a variety of seeds. Most species
appear to employ a monogamous breeding strategy. The
litters are small, but the young are highly developed
at birth.
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