What is eurasian water shrew?

The Eurasian water shrew (Neomys fodiens) is a relatively large shrew found in much of Europe and parts of Asia. It is a semi-aquatic mammal adapted for life in and around water.

• Appearance: It has a dark grey to black back and white or greyish-white belly, although variations exist. They possess a long, pointed snout, small eyes, and tiny ears that are mostly hidden in their fur. A key characteristic is the fringe of stiff hairs along the edges of their feet, which aid in swimming.

• Habitat: Eurasian water shrews are typically found near slow-flowing streams, rivers, canals, ponds, and lakes with dense vegetation along the banks. They require clean, unpolluted water.

• Diet: Their diet consists primarily of aquatic invertebrates such as insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. They will also eat small fish, amphibians, and occasionally carrion. They are venomous, using toxins in their saliva to paralyze prey.

• Behavior: They are active both during the day and night. Eurasian water shrews are excellent swimmers and divers, able to stay submerged for a significant amount of time. They create burrows in banks, often with underwater entrances.

• Reproduction: Breeding season typically occurs from spring to autumn. Females can have multiple litters per year, with each litter containing several young.

• Conservation Status: The Eurasian water shrew is generally considered to be of Least Concern by the IUCN, although local populations may be threatened by habitat loss and pollution.