Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Sorex
Habitat
Laxmann's shrew inhabits boreal forests, tundra, and wetlands across northern Europe and Asia. It prefers moist environments with dense vegetation, such as grasslands, shrublands, and areas near rivers or streams for cover and food sources.
Diet
Laxmann's shrew primarily eats insects, spiders, earthworms, and other small invertebrates. It hunts actively day and night due to its high metabolic rate, consuming food equivalent to its body weight daily to sustain energy.
Behavior
Laxmann's shrew is solitary and territorial, defending small home ranges with scent markings. It is primarily nocturnal but may be active during the day, exhibiting rapid, darting movements while foraging. These shrews have a high metabolic rate, leading to constant activity and frequent feeding.
Conservation Status
IUCN status is Least Concern, with a stable population trend. Major threats include habitat loss from deforestation and climate change in its northern range.