Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Eulipotyphla
- Family
- Soricidae
- Genus
- Sorex
Habitat
This shrew inhabits the tundra and moist meadows of Saint Lawrence Island in Alaska. It prefers areas near streams, wetlands, and dense vegetation for cover and foraging. These regions are characterized by cold, arctic conditions with short summers.
Diet
The Saint Lawrence Island shrew primarily feeds on insects, spiders, earthworms, and other small invertebrates. It forages actively both day and night, using its acute sense of smell to locate prey in the soil and under vegetation. Feeding involves rapid, darting movements to capture and consume food immediately.
Behavior
These shrews are solitary and territorial, defending small home ranges with scent markings. They are primarily nocturnal but may be active during the day in favorable conditions, exhibiting high energy levels and constant foraging due to their fast metabolism. They do not hibernate and remain active year-round, often making high-pitched vocalizations.
Conservation Status
The IUCN status of the Saint Lawrence Island shrew is Least Concern, with a stable population trend. Major threats include habitat alteration due to climate change and potential predation.