Common Shrew

Sorex araneus

Commonest & widespread of the three species of Shrews throughout Britain.

 Also occurs throughout the whole of mainland Europe except the Mediterranean lowlands, Iceland, Ireland & the temperate parts of Asia.

Has velvety dark brown fur with a pale underside.

It is one of the rare venomous mammals.

Juvenile Shrews have lighter fur until their first moult.

The Common Shrew has small eyes, a pointed, mobile snout and red-tipped teeth.

It has a life span of approximately 14 months.

Shrews are active day and night, taking short periods of rest between relatively long bursts of activity.