The four-toed elephant shrew or four-toed sengi is the only living species in the genus Petrodromus, which together with five other extant genera Rhynchocyon, Macroscelides, Petrosaltator, Galegeeska and Elephantulus constitutes the order Macroscelidea.[1] This species is only found in particular regions in Africa and is smaller in size compared to its relatives.[3] A comprehensive recording of this species is lacking.[1]
As its name suggests, the species has four toes on its hind feet,[4] and like other elephant shrews, it has been named for its elephant-like, mobile proboscis.[5]
The four-toed elephant shrew is located in Central and Southern East Africa, notably in Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and possibly Namibia. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests, montane forests, and moist savannas lowland forests.[2] Throughout these countries, they are the second most widespread species, following the short-snouted elephant shrew.[2][3]
Specifically, they thrive in dense forests (notably in dense evergreen growths), woodlands and thickets,[6] with suitable cover and protection, as well as invertebrates for food.[2] In these areas, they are the second most common species.[2] During the night, they prefer to sleep under dense brush (as opposed to a nest).[4]
In some areas, their habitats are being destroyed and four-toed elephant shrews are being hunted, but their conservation status is of least concern.[2]
A four-toed elephant shrew has long, soft fur and its color varies from greyish pale brown to dark brown with white rings around its eyes, and wide dark stripes on its back.[7]