Water Shrew
Sorex palustris
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Soricomorpha · Soricidae
About
The American water shrew or northern water shrew is a shrew found in the nearctic faunal region located throughout the mountain ranges of the northern United States and in Canada and Alaska. The organism resides in semi-aquatic habitats, and is known for being the smallest mammalian diver.
Fun Fact
Unlike most species of shrews which breed later in the year, American water shrews have been found to breed between the months of February and August based on analysis of wild specimen whose ovarian and testicular activity was at a height during these months.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Inhabit streams of higher inclines, although they have been observed in a variety of water bodies including more gently sloping streams, springs, mud flats, and even beaver dens.
Diet
Prey depending on the ease of the attack, but mainly target aquatic prey by diving from rocks or elevated banks of streams, making them the smallest of the mammalian divers.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance