Tenerife Mammals - endemic, warm-blooded vertebratesTenerife mammals. The title isn't strictly true - this page also features rodents, so is more concerned with all warm blooded vertebrates. There aren't that many species endemic to the island.
There used to be an endemic rat species in Tenerife - appropriately called the Tenerife Giant Rat! Don't let the "giant" bit put you off; known only from fossils, it grew to a similar size to the brown rat known on the island today. So, from this extinct endemic species, the brown rat might claim descent. It's unlikely, though, as brown rats are known all the world over and probably found themselves on islands such as Tenerife through stowing away on sailing ships. As you probably know, this rodent will eat anything, but is quite partial to cereals. The brown rat is a good swimmer, both on the surface and underwater. It is also an excellent digger, creating intricate burrows for habitation.  Photo: Hans-Jörg Hellwig
Another, related species, also rife in Tenerife. Unlike the brown rat, this one is a good climber, but a poor swimmer. It prefers warmer climates, so the island is ideal. They are nocturnal creatures, venturing out at night for food. They are also omnivorous, but are partial to grains and fruit.  Photo: Kilessan
Yes, this small rodent common to many countries is also found on Tenerife. 
They don't mind where they live either! Open fields, farmlands and human dwellings - they're not fussy. They can cause damage and feed on food that is meant for other animals or even humans. They can transmit food poisoning. They don't like bright light and operated mainly during dusk and at night.
There is also another species of shrew, endemic to the Canary Islands, the Canarian Shrew, which is, needless to say, a bit bigger than the Etruscan Pigmy.
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