Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Common shrew

Scientific name: Sorex araneus


Common shrew

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: SORICIDAE

Group: Mammals

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 2 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.05-30.09

Gestation: 19–21 jours

Births: 01.06-31.08


Habitat:
Forests, meadows, hedgerows

Description:
The common shrew, or Sorex araneus, is a small insectivorous mammal found primarily in Europe. It measures about 5 to 8 cm in length, excluding its tail, which adds an additional 3 to 5 cm. Its fur is typically dark brown on the back and lighter on the belly, allowing it to blend into its natural surroundings. It has a pointed snout and characteristic red-tipped teeth. The common shrew is a very active animal, spending most of its time foraging for food, mainly insects, spiders, and worms. It has a very fast metabolism, meaning it needs to eat frequently to survive.

Recommended lens:
>=Macro

Photography tips:
To photograph the common shrew, it is advisable to use a macro lens to capture the details of this small mammal. Look for areas where it is active, such as forest edges or meadows. Be patient and discreet, as it is suspicious and quick. Try photographing early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is soft and the shrew's activity is at its peak. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and achieve sharp images.

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