The tree shrew is a small mammal found primarily in the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. It resembles a squirrel and has a long body, large eyes, and a pointed snout. Tree shrews are known for their agility and can often be seen climbing trees in search of food, which includes fruits, insects, and small vertebrates. Tree shrews belong to the order Scandentia and are not true shrews, despite their name. They are considered to be closely related to primates, making them an important species for studying the evolution of mammals. Their habitat is typically dense forests, where they build nests in tree branches.