Mammals
Eurasian Water Shrew
Neomys fodiens · also called eurasian water shrews, european water shrew
Delivering a mildly venomous bite to a frog many times its own size, a Eurasian water shrew claims a meal that would otherwise be far too strong for such a small predator to subdue, one of only a handful of venomous mammals on Earth.
Overview
The Eurasian water shrew, Neomys fodiens, is a semi-aquatic, mildly venomous insectivore native to wetland and forest habitat across a broad range spanning Europe and parts of Asia. Its rare venomous bite among mammals, dark water-resistant coat, and fringed feet adapted for swimming make it one of the most physiologically remarkable small mammals found anywhere across its range.
A shrew that fights above its weight
The Eurasian water shrew’s mild venom gives it a genuine edge against prey that would otherwise be far too large or strong to subdue, letting this small predator occasionally punch well above its weight class when hunting frogs and small fish.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread across suitable wetland and forest habitat throughout Europe and parts of Asia.
Eurasian Water Shrew: common questions
Is the Eurasian water shrew really venomous?
Yes, this species is one of the very few venomous mammals alive, producing a mild toxin in its saliva that is delivered through a bite, an unusual trait shared by only a small number of mammal species worldwide.
How does venom help the Eurasian water shrew hunt?
This species can occasionally overpower prey considerably larger than its own body, such as frogs and small fish, aided by the mild venom delivered through its bite, which helps subdue struggling prey that might otherwise be too strong for such a small predator to handle.
How is the Eurasian water shrew adapted for swimming?
This species has a dark, dense, water-resistant coat along with a fringe of stiff hairs on its feet and tail, adaptations that provide insulation, buoyancy, and improved swimming efficiency in the fast-moving water it hunts within.
Where does the Eurasian water shrew live?
This species is native to wetland and forest habitat across a broad range spanning Europe and parts of Asia, typically found along streams, rivers, and ponds within forested or vegetated landscapes.