New endemic mouse discovered in DavOr

A NEW species of shrew-like mouse was discovered in the mountains of Davao Oriental, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Davao Region (DENR-Davao).

In a press release, the Philippine-endemic rodent has dark brown hair with soft, dense fur, small eyes and ears, and a long, tapering nose like a shrew.

The study was first conducted by Dakota Rowsey, vertebrate collections manager at Arizona State University, and research associate at the Field Museum.

"That DNA study demonstrated that the new mouse was not related to the species up in the northern Philippines, but instead was related to species from Mindanao," Rowsey said.

The new mouse was named “Baletemys kampalili,” a combined Greek word “mys” which means mouse and “Balete,” in honor of late Filipino biologist Danilo S. Balete.

Balete is known for his contribution to Philippine mammal’s taxonomy and conservation.

DENR-Davao, meanwhile, said there is a need to preserve the country's biodiversity, by keeping the habitats of the wild species protected.

“The pride of having rich biodiversity also comes with a responsibility to maintain its sustenance,” DENR Davao said.

“[To] keep our wildlife species means keeping them and their habitat safe. If it’s not for conservation purposes, let’s refrain from hunting and disturbing them,” the agency added. RGL