Lesser white-toothed shrew

The lesser white-toothed shrew (Crocidura suaveolens) is a small mammal belonging to the family Soricidae and the order Eulipotyphla. Although primarily insectivorous, these animals are frequently encountered in agricultural landscapes where their subterranean activities can impact crop health and root stability in various farming environments.

Their diet consists mainly of insects, larvae, and other soil-dwelling invertebrates, which can be beneficial in some contexts. However, the physical activity of digging tunnels in the topsoil causes direct mechanical damage to the root systems of young vegetable crops, nursery plants, and seedlings, making them susceptible to stress and pathogens.

The biological cycle of this species is marked by high reproductive potential and a high metabolic rate, requiring constant feeding. They breed throughout the warmer months, allowing populations to establish quickly in areas with sufficient cover and humidity. Their activity patterns are continuous, meaning they do not hibernate and remain active in the field throughout the year.

The level of damage is often indirect but significant. By tunneling through seedbeds and crop rows, they disrupt soil structure, causing roots to dry out. Furthermore, their tunnel networks serve as pathways for other harmful rodents, such as voles, which utilize these corridors to access and destroy deeper root systems, tubers, and freshly sown seeds in the field.

Integrated pest management strategies are crucial for controlling their impact. Recommended practices include frequent soil cultivation, weed management in headlands, and the removal of dense ground cover that provides shelter. By minimizing habitat suitability and ensuring efficient field sanitation, farmers can effectively reduce the population density of these shrews without relying on toxic methods.