A SHREW IN OUR BACKYARD

When bagging up leaves in the yard today our son came across a small toad and a shrew.  Yep, you heard right.  It was a shrew.  We've lived in this same house a long time and we have never seen a shrew around here.  It was quite an exciting discovery.


It's actually kinda cute, wouldn't you say?

Getting ready to make its "Great Escape" off the driveway.

"Shrew is the common name for small, mouse-like insectivorous mammals.  They are characterized by a pointed snout, minute eyes, and small ears. Although their external appearance is generally that of a long-nosed mouse, the shrews are not rodents and not closely related.  Shrews have feet with five clawed toes, unlike rodents, which have four.

Shrews include the smallest known mammals, and also ones with the highest heart rate.  Shrews also have sharp incisors and a reputation for having a savage disposition, killing larger animals and eating incessantly to stay alive. Some are known to be venomous, which is unusual among mammals, and unlike most mammals some species also can use echolocation.

Shrews provide a valuable service for human beings, as they consume pest insects and slugs that can damage crops. Beyond this, their small size, savage reputation, and unique behaviors have captured the interest and imaginations of people, adding to the wonder and mystery of nature."  (New World Encyclopedia)