The
Uropsilinae or
shrew moles are shrew-like members of
the mole family of mammals
endemic to the
forested, high-alpine region bordering
China,
Myanmar, and
Vietnam. They possess a long snout, a long slender tail, external ears, and small forefeet unspecialized for burrowing. Although they are similar to
shrews in size, external appearance, and, presumably, ecological habits, they are nevertheless
talpids and considered true
moles, as they share a full
zygomatic arch with all other moles, while this arch is completely absent in shrews.