Today we are going to stick with the smaller mammals of the Canadian Rockies as we delve into the life of the Pygmy Shrew.  There are a few different Pygmy Shrews out there but we will be looking at the American Pygmy Shrew (Sorex hoyi) in today’s Wild Fact.  Similar to the rest of the animals this week this shrew can be found from Alaska, through northwestern Canada and into the northern United States.  These little shrews can also be found in other areas of North America such as Ontario and throughout the Appalachian Mountain Range.

The Pygmy Shrew is known to be one of the smallest mammals on this planet we call Earth.  They reach an average length of 83 – 95 mm (3.25 – 3.75″) and weigh between 2.7 – 5.1 grams (.095 – 1.8 oz).  As you can imagine, when you are this small you will have numerous predators.  Of course this is the case for this tiny shrew.  They are susceptible to attacks from hawks, owls, snakes, cats, among many other animals.  The Pygmy Shrew is able to defend themselves from these attacks by heading underground.  They will spend much of their lives in the underground world where they are active day and night all year long.  Throughout this time they will take short naps to recharge from the day’s activities.

Since they spend the majority of their time undergound the shrew will usually feed on the adult and larvae forms of insects as well as some worms, snails and slugs every now and again.  One study found that an immature female actually consumed more than 3 times her body weight in one day.  I would say that is a lot of food but when you look at how small their bodies are it becomes less impressive.

Pygmy Shrew Fast Fact – I was rather surprised to find out that the Pygmy Shrew was first identified by William Cane in Parry Sound, Ontario.  I was amused and surprised since I use to live in Parry Sound before moving up north to the Yukon.  I guess I should have been looking harder to try and identify a new species of animal! Oh well, I guess I will know better next time.

That does it for the mid-week Wild Fact.  Be sure to tune in tomorrow as I have a special surprise for all of my readers.  Enjoy the rest of your day!