Rufous elephant shrews are small mouse-like animals. They have a body length between 12 and 12.5 cms (4.75 - 5 inches), a tail length between 13 and 13.5 cms (5 - 5.5 inches) and they weigh between 25 and 60 g (0.9 - 2.1 oz).
They have reddish/brown fur with a white underside, white markings around their eyes and a long, hairless tail. They have a long, pointed snout which is flexible and very sensitive, and they use this to hunt out prey.
They have large eyes, ears and their legs are long and slender. Their hind legs are longer than their fore legs which allows them to hop and jump. They are active during the day and they spend time foraging for food and maintaining pathways within their range. |
