Scadentia, from Latin scandens (“climbing”), in reference to the fact that some species are arboreal and climb trees from the ground.

Common names of members

Tree shrews, banxrings.

Distribution 

South and Southeast Asia.

Size

Their sizes vary from 23 cm with a 13 cm tail to 11 cm with a 9 cm tail.

Morphology

Their bodies are squirrel-like, but longer snout than squirrels. They are lean creatures with long tails and fur that ranges from soft grey to reddish-brown. They have 5 digits with sharp claws. When it comes to their ability to dig out insect prey, terrestrial species typically have larger claws than arboreal forms. Their molars are not specialized, and their canine teeth are underdeveloped.

Ecology & Habitat

Tropical forest, in both ground and canopy.

Diet

Being omnivores, they consume fruit, seeds, small animals, and insects as food. In addition, they consume Rafflesia fruit.

Reproduction 

They are monogamous. They mate with the same partner for their whole life. The female gives birth to up to three offspring in nests lined with dry leaves within tree hollows during her 45–50 day gestation period. After roughly a month, the young, who are born hairless and blind, are allowed to leave the nest. The mother gives her young very little attention during this time, just spending a few minutes each other day to nurse them. After around four months, they reach sexual maturity. Most species have no set breeding season, and they breed throughout most of the year.

Total species known

24

Species in the collection

1

Species in Hong Kong

0

References

Pough, F. H., Janis, C. M., Heiser, J. B. (2012). Vertebrate Life. Pearson.

Macdonald, D. W. (2006). The Encyclopedia of mammals. Oxford University Press. https://doi.org/10.1093/acref/9780199206087.001.0001.

Wilson, D. E.; Reeder, D. M. (2005). Mammal Species of the World: A Taxonomic and Geographic Reference. Johns Hopkins University Press.