BRITISH MAMMALS 



Genus Neomys. 



THE WATER SHREW. 



Neomys fodiens, Pallas. 

 Plate 9. 



This beautiful species is the largest of our Shrews, measuring in length 

 of head and body from about 3 to 3^ inches, with a tail measurement 

 of about 2 inches. 



The colour of the upper parts is usually a deep black with a slaty gloss, 

 while the under parts are normally white, though sometimes darker, with a 

 rusty tinge. The orifice of the ear is " feathered " with white hairs, and 

 also the under surface of the tail. A darker form of this species often 

 occurs with the whole body above and below more or less dusky, which 

 was at one time considered distinct, and described and figured by Bell as 

 the Oared Shrew [Sorex remifer). 



Like the other British species, the Water Shrew has its teeth tipped 

 with rust colour. 



The form of this animal is well adapted to its aquatic habits, the toes 

 as well as the tail being fringed with hairs which are of use when swim- 

 ming and diving. Compared with its allies the snout of the Water Shrew 

 is thicker and more powerful. 



The Water Shrew has a wide range in Europe, from as far north as 

 Russia to Spain and Italy, while eastwards in Asia it reaches the Altai 

 Mountains. In Great Britain it is well distributed over England, Wales, 

 and the mainland of Scotland, but unknown in Ireland. 



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