The lightest known mammal is the Etruscan shrew.
Etruscan Shrew: The Smallest Mammal
The Etruscan shrew (Suncus etruscus) holds the record for being the smallest mammal by mass. This tiny creature is also known as the Etruscan pygmy shrew, white-toothed pygmy shrew, and Savi's pygmy shrew.
Key Characteristics
- Weight: The average Etruscan shrew weighs approximately 1.8 grams (0.063 ounces).
- Size: These shrews are incredibly small, adding to their lightweight nature.
Other Details
While many other very small animals exist, including insects and some invertebrates, when focusing on mammals, the Etruscan shrew is definitively the lightest.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Suncus etruscus |
| Common Names | Etruscan shrew, Etruscan pygmy shrew, white-toothed pygmy shrew, Savi's pygmy shrew |
| Average Weight | 1.8 g (0.063 oz) |
| Classification | Mammal |
