Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Sorex
Habitat
The Eurasian least shrew inhabits moist environments such as forests, meadows, and riverbanks in Europe and northern Asia. It prefers areas with dense vegetation and ground cover for protection, often in cool, temperate regions with access to water.
Diet
The Eurasian least shrew primarily consumes insects, earthworms, and other small invertebrates. It forages actively both day and night due to its high metabolic rate, often hunting in leaf litter or soil to find prey.
Behavior
Eurasian least shrews are solitary and territorial, defending small home ranges with scent markings. They are primarily nocturnal, actively foraging for food with quick, darting movements. These shrews have a high metabolic rate, requiring them to eat frequently and rest in burrows or under cover.
Conservation Status
The IUCN status of the Eurasian least shrew is Least Concern, with a stable population trend. Major threats include habitat loss due to agriculture and urbanization.