[2] In the latter part of 20th century, scientists believed that Caenolestes is closely related to Lestoros (the Incan caenolestid).

The generic name Caenolestes derives from the Greek words kainos ("new") and lestes ("robber", "pirate").

Analysis of stomach contents of individuals from Peru suggested a diet comprised largely (up to 75%) by invertebrate larvae (such as arachnids and centipedes); small vertebrates and plant material are also consumed.

Its population has decreased by nearly 20% since the 1990s; numbers are feared to be declining due to deforestation and agricultural expansion.

[1] The gray-bellied caenolestid occurs in Cajas National Park and Mazán Ecological Reserve.