small mammal remains

[asheleaf]

came across this today. anyone know what it is or was? Found in the open on top of a flood bank, close to water, with a hedgerow remnants near by.

thanks, Ashe

[Ukwildlifeo]

Not sure but the fur looks more black than brown to me so I would suggest one of the shrews

[The Woodman]

I know it's very late to be saying this (I've fallen for misID at this time of night before!) but it does look like Water Shrew pelage due to the graphite grey dorsal and near white ventral fur colouration.

In the cold light of New Years day I'll be happy to review in good light and sobriety.

[asheleaf]

Originally Posted by The Woodman

I know it's very late to be saying this (I've fallen for misID at this time of night before!) but it does look like Water Shrew pelage due to the graphite grey dorsal and near white ventral fur colouration.

In the cold light of New Years day I'll be happy to review in good light and sobriety.

I wondered that myself, the habitat is right. My son saw Water Voles not a mile from this spot so its possible.

Hope you enjoyed your new year celebrations and arent suffering for them this morning!

Ashe

[asheleaf]

Another question - Who ate it? I'm curious about which creature managed to get the skin of in one piece and would pick out and discard the intestines. There was no sign of any other remains, no skull, bones etc.

thanks, Ashe

[Dogghound]

I agree its a water shrew nothing else has these colours in the UK. As for what ate it take your pick, bird of prey, cat, dog, stoat, weasel, mink etc.... Shrews are distasteful so it likely this has been rejected.

[Merrow]

mink are very good at taking the skins off fish like that

[asheleaf]

Originally Posted by Dogghound

I agree its a water shrew nothing else has these colours in the UK. As for what ate it take your pick, bird of prey, cat, dog, stoat, weasel, mink etc.... Shrews are distasteful so it likely this has been rejected.

It wasn't rejected! Something ate up every crumb (if a shrew can have crumbs?) I turned it over and all thats left is the clean pelt and discarded intestines. I reckon something must like the taste of shrew.

cheers, Ashe

[asheleaf]

Originally Posted by Merrow

mink are very good at taking the skins off fish like that

thanks, thats great info. I've not seen mink here yet but they must be about.

thank you, Ashe

[Dogghound]

Ahh I see, if it was skinned like this I would suggest its been eaten by a kestrel. Birds of prey will take shrews particularly owls (although clearly this hasnt been killed by an owl).