SHREWS (Sorex cinereus)

Robert H. Schmidt, Assistant Professor, Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322-5210

Document Type Article

Abstract

The shrew (Sorex cinereus) is a small, mouse-sized mammal with an elongated snout, a dense fur of uniform color, small eyes, and five clawed toes on each foot. Shrews are broadly distributed throughout the world and North America. Shrews vary widely in habitat preferences throughout North America. Shrews are in the taxonomic order Insectivora. Shrews are among the world’s smallest mammals. Most species of shrews do not have significant negative impacts and are not abundant enough to be considered pests (Schmidt 1984).