Nimba otter shrew

The Nimba otter shrew (Micropotamogale lamottei) is one of three species of amphibious, carnivorous insectivores found in tropical Africa, belonging to the subfamily Potamogalinae. These animals are not true shrews but share some characteristics. They are nocturnal and build dens in stream banks with underwater entrances. The Nimba otter shrew is a dwarf species, weighing between 60 to 150 grams and measuring 12 to 20 cm in body length with a shorter tail. It has uniformly brownish-gray fur and uses its feet for swimming and diving, often floating on the water's surface. Its diet consists of earthworms, aquatic insect larvae, small crabs, fish, and frogs. The Nimba shrew is exclusively found in the Nimba Range region of western Africa.1