They are swift runners. Tupaiids are good climbers, seeking their food in trees as well as on the ground. They have keen senses of smell and hearing and good vision. Although they are often short-tempered in the presence of others of their own kind, usually they are easily tamed by people. Their diet consists primarily of insects and fruits but occasionally includes other animal food and various kinds of plant material.
Tree shrews are generally fond of water for both drinking and bathing.
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