When we think about mammals, we usually imagine big animals like elephants, lions, or whales. But not all mammals are large. In fact, the world’s smallest mammal is so tiny that it can easily fit on your thumb! In the previous article we have talked about the world’s smallest animal but today in this article we will talk about the world’s smallest mammal.
In this article, we will explore everything about the smallest mammal on Earth—its name, size, where it lives, and why it is so special.
Meet the Smallest Mammal: The Etruscan Shrew
The Etruscan shrew (Suncus etruscus) holds the record for being the smallest mammal in the world. It is the tiniest mammal by weight, which is the most widely accepted way scientists measure “smallest.”
The Etruscan Shrew: Smallest by Mass
The Etruscan shrew (Suncus etruscus), also known as the white-toothed pygmy shrew, holds the title for the smallest mammal by Mass according to the wikipedia reports. Weighing between 1.3 to 2.5 grams, it’s lighter than a U.S. penny. Measuring about 36–52 mm in length (excluding the tail), this tiny insectivore has a rapid metabolism, consuming up to twice its body weight daily. Found across southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia, the Etruscan shrew thrives in warm, damp environments.
- Weight: Just 1.3 to 2.5 grams
- Length: Around 3.6 to 5.2 cm (excluding the tail)
- Diet: Mostly insects
- Where It Lives: Southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia
- Fun Fact: Its heart beats over 1,000 times per minute!
This tiny creature is lighter than a coin and can even rest on your fingertip. Despite its size, it has a huge appetite and eats almost twice its body weight each day.
| Feature | Etruscan Shrew |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Suncus etruscus |
| Average Weight | 1.3 to 2.5 grams |
| Average Length | 3.6–5.2 cm (head-body) |
| Habitat | Southern Europe, North Africa, Asia |
| Diet | Insects |
| Special Trait | Fastest heart rate in mammals |
FAQs
Q: What is the smallest mammal in the world?
A: The Etruscan shrew is the smallest mammal by weight, weighing as little as 1.3 grams.
Q: Where does the Etruscan shrew live?
A: It lives in warm regions of southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia.
Q: What does the Etruscan shrew eat?
A: It eats insects, such as spiders, crickets, and other small bugs.
Q: Is the Etruscan shrew endangered?
A: No, it is not currently endangered, but it does face threats from habitat destruction.
Q: Why is the Etruscan shrew so special?
A: Because it’s the smallest mammal in the world and has one of the fastest heartbeats of any animal!
