Common shrew

The common shrew (Sorex araneus) or Eurasian shrew is the most common shrew, and one of the most common mammals, throughout Northern Europe, including Great Britain, but excluding Ireland. It is 55–82 millimetres (2.2–3.2 in) long and weighs 5–12 grams (0.2–0.4 oz), and has velvety dark brown fur with a pale underside. 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, but mostly after dark. They are active most of the time, resting for only a few minutes between burst of activity.

Territory

The common shrew is found in the woodlands, grasslands, and hedgelands of Britain, Scandinavia, and Eastern Europe. Each shrew establishes a home range of 370–630 square metres (440–750 sq yd). Males extend these boundaries only during breeding season, to find females. The common shrew is extremely territorial and becomes aggressive when another shrew enters its home range. It makes its nest underground or under dense vegetation.