The smallest mammal species in the county (and the UK). It is widespread and common, occurring in woodland, scrub, grassland, wetland margins and moorland where there is adequate cover. It is less numerous than the Common Shrew in most habitats, though apparently more frequent in upland areas. It has been recorded up to 580m on Kinder (Clinging & Whiteley 1980). The population is presumed to be stable. They are trapped significantly less frequently than the common shrew, possibly due to weight (2.5-5.5g) making it more difficult to set a Longworth trap for them. Probably under-recorded in the county. Like the common shrew, unmarked dead individuals are sometimes found. These have usually been killed by cats or other predators, then found to be inedible. Pygmy shrews may climb trees and bushes and they have been found using dormouse nestboxes at both the local reintroduction sites.

Species identification information

Distribution map