| WATER SHREW Neomys fodiens | |
| STATUS: Records indicate it is localised and thinly distributed | |
 Derek Whiteley |
Records until recently indicated
a localised and sparse distribution but it was believed to be under-recorded
both nationally and in the county. Several new county localities were
added as a result of a UK-wide survey organised by the Mammal Society
2003-2005, in which DMG members participated. The current records almost certainly understate the actual distribution and ongoing survey work is expected to reveal further new sites for the species. Water shrews have been recorded in rivers, streams, canals and ponds. Status on the moors is unclear. They have been found in rushy areas and small streams up to 500m, but they seem to be absent from some upland acid streams. Water shrews are occasionally found well away from water, as shown by captures while small mammal trapping. They are only rarely recovered from owl pellets. Water Shrews may use garden ponds and detailed observations of animals by Dr Steve Furness in the Calver area have produced a lot of interesting new information on their behaviour and ecology. |