Common Treeshrew
About the Common Treeshrew in Singapore
Last updated 29 May 2026
The Common Treeshrew (Tupaia glis) is a small, active mammal frequently seen darting across the ground in Singapore's forests, parks, and even mature gardens. They are a common resident species that are active during the day, also known as diurnal.
Identifying features
Check out some identifying features of the Common Treeshrew!
While it might look like a squirrel at first glance, you can easily distinguish the Common Treeshrew by its long, sharply pointed snout, which is quite different from a squirrel's short, blunt face. They are covered in olive-brown fur and notably lack the prominent, long whiskers seen on many other similar small mammals.
Habitat and ecology
Despite their name, they spend a large amount of their time foraging on the forest floor and lower branches rather than high up in the trees. They use their sharp claws and long snouts to dig for insects, spiders, seeds, and fallen fruits.
Learn more about the Common Treeshrew!
Curious about the Common Treeshrew? Here are some interesting articles you can read to learn more about them.
