Guam has been introduced to many kinds
of shrews and rats. Two of the most common ones are the Polynesian
rat (which is the most common) and the Norway Rat (which is the largest.) 
The rat and shrew are considered pests because they often live in buildings.
They can damage stored food. But equally important, they have caused
a series of ecological problems, preying on native forest birds, sea birds,
lizards, and other wildlife. The shrew and rat also feed on insects.
They are good at climbing trees. They go into the nest and eat eggs
of young baby birds. The shrew was first discovered here in 1962. |
