Bornean short-tailed gymnure

Taxonomy

Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Mammalia
Order:	Eulipotyphla
Family:	Erinaceidae
Genus:	Hylomys
Species:	Hylomys dorsalis

Not a ‘real’ hedgehog

Although the Bornean Short‑tailed Gymnure belongs to the same family as hedgehogs, it falls into the subfamily gymnures (hairy hedgehogs), not true spiny hedgehogs. Like real hedgehogs, it is nocturnal, insectivorous, and has a keen sense of smell. Yet unlike them, it lacks spines, cannot roll into a ball, and instead has coarse fur, a pointed snout, and a short tail, resembling a shrew more than a hedgehog, though it is closely related by ancestry.

Natural range & habitat

This species is endemic to northern Borneo, known from several mountain ranges including Kinabalu, Trus Madi, Murud, Mulu, and Crocker, typically between 1,000 and 3,400 meters above sea level . It inhabits moist montane forests, ranging from oak-moss forests and bamboo patches to grassy forest edges and even areas near buildings in protected reserves.

Physical characteristics

It is a small, shrew-like mammal with a body length of about 9–15 cm, a very short tail (1–3 cm), and a weight of 20–80 grams . Its fur is soft and dense, reddish-brown on the back, yellowish-gray underneath and may bear a dark mid-back stripe .

Behavior & lifestyle

This gymnure is primarily ground-dwelling, occasionally climbs low vegetation, and appears to be active both day and night. It creates narrow trails through dense underbrush for efficient movement .

Communication

While no detailed studies exist, like other gymnures, it likely relies on scent marking and tactile interactions. Its subtle body language and chemical cues probably serve in territorial and mating contexts.

Diet in the wild

Stomach content analyses reveal a diet rich in insects, earthworms, centipedes, beetle larvae, and occasionally tapioca and banana bait, indicating opportunistic omnivory.

Reproduction & life cycle

Reproduction occurs at various times: pregnant females in mid-July, lactating in August–December, and juveniles captured in March suggest an extended or multiple breeding periods.

Threats & conservation status

Currently not evaluated separately by the IUCN, its range overlaps with that of the broader “Short‑tailed Gymnure,” which is listed as Least Concern. However, as a highland specialist, it may be vulnerable to climate change and habitat loss . It is found in several protected areas across northern Borneo.

This species in captivity

There are no records of the Bornean Short‑tailed Gymnure in captivity. Its elusive behavior and specialized montane habitat make it unlikely to be maintained outside its natural environment.