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any mammal in the order Insectivora, which includes the shrew, mole, hedgehog, solenodon, tenrec, and desman. They are found everywhere but Antarctica, Australia, and the southern part of South America. Only moles and shrews are found in North America. Mostly small nocturnal animals with well-developed snouts, insectivores feed on insects and other small invertebrates, such as earthworms. This diverse group has existed since the Cretaceous period, 80 million years ago. The tenrec of Madagascar closely resembles its fossil ancestor, and the golden mole (Chrysochloris) of Africa shows similarities to marsupial moles. In contrast with these forms from the past, the elephant shrew (Macroscelides) of Africa has a larger brain and shows affinities with the primate, the most advanced order of animals.
An article from Funk & Wagnalls® New Encyclopedia. © 2006 World Almanac Education Group. A WRC Media Company. All rights reserved. Except as otherwise permitted by
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