It measures from about 5.5 cm to 8 cm in length. It has a tapered body, covered in thick, dark brown fur on the back and pale fur on the belly. It has a long, pointed snout and a very short tail. Its faeces vary from dark brown to black, are small in size and completely crumbly to the touch due to its insectivorous diet. It has 5 claws per leg, unlike other rodents who have 4. It is common in wooded and grassy areas.