Order Macroscelidea

elephant shrews

There are about 17 species in a single family in this order. Elephant shrews are found in northern Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. They range from mouse to squirrel size.

Elephant shrews have long, pointed, trunk-like snouts; rounded ears; big, round eyes; and long tails. They have long, slender legs. Their rear legs are longer than their front legs, which helps them hop.

Elephant shrews eat insects; some species also eat seeds and fruits.