Pacific Water Shrew (Sorex bendirii)
Description: Dorsal fur dark brown to black, blends into dark brown ventral fur. Tail is uniformly brown and the feet have a short fringe of stiff hairs. Larger than most other species of shrew, with adult length greater than 130 mm.
Habitat: Inhabits moist riparian areas that are by streams and marshes. Usually found in forests with thick canopy cover, thick shrubs, and good ground cover of woody debris and litter. Generally found at lower elevations (below 600 meters).
Feeding: S. bendirii preys on larval and adult aquatic insects, terrestrial insects, arachnids, earthworms, slugs, and small snails.
Breeding: The breeding season extends from late January to late August, with the females producing three to four offspring.
References: Nagorsen, David W. 1996. Opposums, Shrews, and Moles of British Columbia. Royal British Columbia Museum. Victoria, B.C.
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