Home › Mammalia › Soricidae › Water Shrew (Neomys fodiens)
SPECIES PROFILE
Water Shrew (Neomys fodiens)
Neomys
IUCN STATUS
Least Concern
CONSERVATION STATUS
Least Concern
CLASS
Mammalia
GEOGRAPHICAL RANGE
Europe & Asia
DIET
Insectivorous/Carnivorous
HABITAT
Streams, rivers, wetlands
🔬 Classification
PHYLUM
Chordata
CLASS
Mammalia
ORDER
Eulipotyphla
FAMILY
Soricidae
GENUS
Neomys
📋 Description
SIZE
7-10 cm body, 12-18 g
COLORATION
Dark brown/black, white underside
ADAPTATIONS
Venomous saliva, waterproof fur, swimming fringes
🌿 Ecology
HABITAT
Streams, rivers, wetlands
DIET
Insectivorous/Carnivorous
GEOGRAPHIC RANGE
Europe & Asia
REPRODUCTION
5-8 young, 2-3 litters
DIET DETAILS
Aquatic insects, crustaceans, small fish
⚠️ Threats & Conservation
PRIMARY THREATS
Water pollution, habitat loss
💡 Interesting Facts
1
The water shrew is the largest British shrew and can dive underwater for up to 30 seconds. It uses venomous saliva to subdue small fish and has stiff hairs on its feet that act as paddles.
2
It is one of the few venomous mammals in Europe and leaves a strong musky smell.
🔭 Sighting Guide
📍 BEST PLACES TO SIGHT
New Forest UK
Lake District UK
Peak District UK
🗓️ BEST TIME TO SIGHT
Year-round
🎯 SIGHTING TIPS
Look along stream banks for diving; check runs near water.
