All About Insectivores
Discover everything you need to know about the fascinating order of insectivores, featuring small hunters with pointed snouts and sharp teeth!
What Are Insectivores?
Many animals feed on insects, but there is also an entire order of animals named after them. Insectivores (Insectivora) are small mammals that interestingly do not solely eat insects; they also consume other small creatures like earthworms and snails. Examples of insectivores include moles, shrews, and hedgehogs. Typically, insectivores have a pointed nose and sharp teeth. Most species are nocturnal and possess excellent hearing or a keen sense of smell.
Main Characteristics of Insectivores
1. They Have Small, Pointed Teeth
Insectivores are tiny predators that hunt various small insects and invertebrates. To catch and eat their prey, they have numerous small, sharp teeth.
2. They Have a Long Nose
Most insectivores feature a long nose, with some being so elongated that they resemble a short trunk, like in the case of the shrew.
3. They Have Excellent Senses
Insectivores boast a remarkable sense of smell, outstanding hearing, and a very good sense of touch. Their eyesight is less developed, but they do not rely on it much since they are primarily active at night or spend most of their time underground.
Insectivore Family Tree
Amazing Facts About Insectivores
- Insectivores are small mammals.
- Insectivores are a class of animals. They're not to be confused with insectivores (animals that feed on insects).
- There are about 430 species.
- Insectivores include hedgehogs, shrews, moles and solenodons.
- Insectivores are insectivores, feeding primarily on insects and worms.
- The smallest mammal in the world is the Etruscan shrew. It is an insectivore.



























