Sokolov’s Shrew – Crocidura sokolovi – Jenkins, Abramov, Rozhnov & Makarova, 2007

Science name: Crocidura sokolovi – Jenkins, Abramov, Rozhnov & Makarova, 2007

Taxonomic:  Animalia>> Chordata>> Mammalia>> Soricomorpha >> Soricidae >> sokolovi

Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: LC (Least Concern)

Description: Physical Characteristics:
Crocidura sokolovi is a medium-sized shrew with a long tail, which makes up 87-93% of its body length, distinguishing it from other species such as Crocidura attenuata. It has dense, soft fur that is brownish-gray in color, with lighter tones on the ventral side, though the contrast is not highly pronounced. The dorsal surface of the tail is darker than the ventral side.

The skull of C. sokolovi is similar in size to that of C. attenuata but differs in shape, having a narrower maxillary region and a broader, more rounded braincase. The first upper incisor is small, and the talon of the upper premolar (P4) is sub-oblong in shape, which helps distinguish it from other species.

Distribution and habitat: Altitude:
Crocidura sokolovi inhabits high montane regions at an elevation of 2,300 to 2,400 meters above sea level.

Range:
This species is known only from Ngoc Linh Mountain in Kon Tum Province, Vietnam. The estimated extent of occurrence (EOO) for C. sokolovi is limited to 167 km². Currently, its distribution is restricted to this single location, but further studies may reveal its presence in other nearby regions with similar high-altitude forest habitats.

Habitat:
Crocidura sokolovi is associated with montane evergreen and elfin forests at high elevations. These habitats provide cool, moist environments that support a range of invertebrates, which likely constitute its primary food source. The species is believed to be dependent on undisturbed forest areas and may not tolerate significant habitat disturbance.

Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle:
Little is known about the behavior of Crocidura sokolovi, but like other shrews, it is likely nocturnal and feeds primarily on insects and other small arthropods. Its long tail suggests it may be adapted for more agile movement through its forest floor habitat. The species is likely ground-dwelling and forages for food under the cover of leaf litter.

Reproduction:
There is currently no information available on the reproductive biology of C. sokolovi. Further research is needed to understand its breeding habits, gestation period, and litter size.

Conservation and status: IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
Crocidura sokolovi is listed as “Data Deficient” on the IUCN Red List due to the lack of sufficient information on its population size, distribution, and ecology. The species was described relatively recently, and more studies are required to better assess its conservation status.

Threats:
The main threat to C. sokolovi is likely habitat loss due to deforestation and land conversion for agriculture. Ngoc Linh Mountain is home to high levels of biodiversity, and much of the surrounding forest has been degraded. Continued deforestation in the region could pose significant risks to the survival of this species, especially given its limited known range and reliance on undisturbed montane forests.

Conservation Actions:
There are no specific conservation actions currently in place for Crocidura sokolovi. However, protecting the montane evergreen and elfin forests of Ngoc Linh Mountain is essential for preserving the habitat of this and other endemic species. Further surveys are needed to determine its population status, and conservation measures should focus on preventing habitat destruction and ensuring the integrity of its high-altitude forest environment.