Water Shrew
Footprint Images
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.
Footprint Description
3 forward pointing toes,the other 2 almost at right angles.4 interdigital pads,ans 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.
Distribution
The Water Shrew may be found throughout the British Isles, with the exception of Northern Ireland.
Footprint Size
Hind foot - 1.4x1cm, fore foot - 1.2x1cm. Stride approx 4.5cm
Habitat
Although as the name suggests you may find the Water Shrew in and around water, they also inhabit beaches and dry downland.
Diet
Behaviour
Taxonomy
Images of Tracks & Signs
Male
Primary Image
Reproduction
From May onwards, the Water Shrew may have as many as 2/3 litters per year, each containing as many as 8 young.
Scientific Name
Neomys fodiens
Female
Height
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.
Tracks & Signs Description
Juvenile
Length
Body length - 10cm
Weight
Between 10 and 22 gms
Speed
Droppings Images
Life Span
Up to 18 months
Also Known As
Droppings Description
Droppings similar to other Uk Shrew species - dark even when old, elongated, and may contain insect remains.
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.