Eurasian Water Shrew
Neomys fodiens
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Eulipotyphla · Soricidae
About
The Eurasian water shrew, known in the United Kingdom as the water shrew, is a relatively large shrew, up to 10 cm (4 in) long, with a tail up to three-quarters as long again. It has short, dark fur, often with a few white tufts, a white belly, and a few stiff hairs around the feet and tail. It lives close to fresh water, hunting aquatic prey in the water and nearby. Its fur traps bubbles of air in the water which greatly aids its buoyancy, but requires it to anchor itself to remain underwater for more than the briefest of dives.
Fun Fact
Eurasian water shrews produce venomous saliva that can paralyse small fish and frogs — they are one of the very few venomous mammals, alongside the platypus and some solenodons.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Streams and wetlands
Diet
Insectivore
Lifespan
1-3 years
Threats
- Invasive Aquatic Species
- Wetland Drainage