endangered animals

Least shrews are small creatures that are endangered in Connecticut. They were first reported in Connecticut in 1840 and not found again for one hundred years. In 1989, one least shrew was found in the Middlesex county area. Least shrews are only found in the coastal areas of Connecticut with high beach dunes.

Least shrews have tiny eyes, long pointy noses, velvety brown- gray fur, and the shortest tail of any other shrew found in Connecticut. Both males and females look similar in appearance. Their weight is 0.14-0.25 ounces. Their length is 2.7-3.5 inches, including the tail.

Least shrews are on of the smallest mammals in the state. They live less then two years in age.

Least shrews eat insects, earthworms, snails, mollusks, amphibians, lizards, small mammals, and plant material. Least shrews usually get their food above or under the ground. Least shrews dig up their food with their long claws. These tiny mammals can eat up to their own weight every day.

Least shrews’ nests are two to five inches long and are made out of dry grass and leaves. Their nests are usually made under stones or logs.

Least shrews have four to five young at a time.

People are trying to help by protecting the least shrews’ habitats and making them safe. They are attempting to restore dunes and marshes and putting restricted signs around areas where least shrews might live.

Resources: Wildlife in Connecticut, CT DEP-Wildlife Division
Endangered Animals-WWW

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Written by: Teja

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