Common Name: Water Shrew
Scientific Name: Sorex palustris
Habitat: Springs, lakes, and fast-moving streams with some quiet pools.
Diet: Carnivorous—insects, worms, aquatic larvae, small fish, and even trout eggs.
Interesting Facts:
This uncommon shrew has a fringe of stiff hairs on the outer side of each hind foot that is a direct adaptation to its aquatic lifestyle. Air bubbles trapped by its fur give this animal great buoyancy but only allow it to be submerged for about 15 seconds at a time.