Activity patterns of Myosorex varius and M. Cafer in captivity

Abstract

The circadian rhythms of captive Myosorex varius and M. cafer (Insectivora: Soricidae) were investigated. Both were predominantly nocturnal, M. varius being active for 4% of the day and 34% of the night, while comparable figures for M. cafer were 11% and 37% respectively. The mean level of daily activity in both forms was similar to that which appears to be characteristic of their subfamily, the Crocidurinae.

Die daaglikse ritme van Myosorex varius en M. Cafer (Insectivora: Soricidae) in gevangenskap is ondersoek. Beide is oorwegend naglewend; M. varius is 4% aktief gedurende die dag en 34% gedurende die nag, terwyl vergelykbare syfers vir M. cafer respektiewelik 11% en 37% is. Die gemiddelde daaglikse aktiwiteitsvlak in die twee spesies was soortgelyk aan die wat blykbaar die betrokke subfamilie, die Crocidurinae, kenmerk.