Water Shrew
Scientific Name:
Description
A black coat with silvery-white underparts, white ear tips and eyebrows, with a medium length tail, are the distinguishing features of this little mammal.
Weight:
Lifespan:
Distribution:
The Water Shrew may be found throughout the British Isles, with the exception of Northern Ireland.
Habitat:
Although as the name suggests you may find the Water Shrew in and around water, they also inhabit beaches and dry downland.
Reproduction:
From May onwards, the Water Shrew may have as many as 2/3 litters per year, each containing as many as 8 young.
Predators:
Birds of prey, pike and mink are all predators of the Water Shrew; although this little mammal may live as long as 18 months most do not survive this long.
Status:
Numbers tend to fluctuate and the Water Shrew may disappear and then reappear within the same area over a period of time.
Did You Know?:
If a human being is bitten by a Water Shrew, the pain may last for a few days.
Footprint Description:
3 forward pointing toes, the other 2 almost at right angles.4 interdigital pads, and 2 proximal (heel) pads. In very soft ground hair may show in the tracks. Whenever ground is soft enough to reveal tracks, the full hand outline is almost always visible.
Droppings Description:
Droppings similar to other Uk Shrew species - dark even when old, elongated, and may contain insect remains.