ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Pygmy Shrew

 

 Pygmy Shrew


No Photo
Available


 
The pygmy shrew is the smallest living mammal. Its weight is about equal to that of a dime!
 

Pygmy Shrew
Sorex hoyi

At-a-Glance

• Typical Foods: insects such as ants, spiders, earthworms, beetles, and caterpillars

• Ohio Status: Species of Concern 
 
Description
This shrew is very small, with a pointed nose and narrow head. The hair varies from gray-brown to gray with a lighter colored underbelly.

Habitat and Habits
Pygmy shrews can live in a variety of habitats, including wooded and open areas, swamps, grassy clearings and floodplains. They are excellent diggers in soft soil, but they also use tunnels made by other animals.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Pygmy shrews produce one litter a year, between June and August, with three to eight young in a litter. The average gestation period is 19 days.