Shrews are small, active mammals with an exceptionally high metabolism. Often no larger than a mouse, they constantly forage for food to sustain their energetic lifestyles.
Shrew Locomotion and Climbing Ability
Shrews are primarily terrestrial animals, moving mostly on the ground through leaf litter and dense vegetation. While not adept climbers, their physical attributes allow them to scale certain vertical surfaces. They possess small, clawed feet and flexible bodies, providing grip with sharp, curved claws that find purchase on rough textures.
They can climb surfaces like brick walls or use climbing aids such as planted facades, wood cladding, and insulation. While they can access homes from various entry points, they cannot climb smooth, sheer walls. Their small size allows them to squeeze through tiny gaps in foundations, walls, and roofs to enter structures.
Distinguishing Shrews from Other Small Mammals
Shrews are often mistaken for mice or voles due to their similar size. However, shrews are not rodents; they belong to the mammalian order insectivores. They have an elongated, pointed snout, contrasting with the blunter noses of mice and voles. Shrews also have very small, often hidden ears and tiny, bead-like eyes, unlike mice with larger, more visible ears and eyes.
Their fur is dense and uniform in color, ranging from dark brown to gray or black, unlike the bicolored fur of house mice. Shrews possess sharp, spiky teeth, adapted for their insectivorous diet, unlike the gnawing incisors of rodents. Behaviorally, shrews exhibit frantic, darting movements and are solitary and aggressive, whereas mice tend to be more social.
Shrews in Human Environments
Shrews may enter homes primarily in search of food or shelter. They are drawn to areas with abundant insects, grubs, or accessible pet and human food. Homes also offer warm, dark, and secluded places, particularly during colder months. They can enter structures through small openings in foundations, around pipes, or gaps in windows and doors.
Unlike rodents, shrews are not associated with structural damage to homes, as they do not gnaw on materials to create nests or access food. However, their presence can contaminate food supplies with droppings and urine. Shrews also possess scent glands that emit a pungent odor, which may be noticeable indoors.