Wildlife

Water Shrew Welfare and Habitat in the UK

Understanding the needs of Britain's largest shrew and protecting its wetland habitat.

Key Facts

Water shrews are the largest of Britain's three shrew species
They hunt aquatic invertebrates, small fish, and amphibians
Venomous saliva helps subdue prey — one of few venomous mammals
Require clean, well-vegetated stream and pond margins

Welfare Considerations

Water shrew welfare depends on access to clean, unpolluted water and dense bank vegetation. Drainage improvement and water quality degradation are major threats. Welfare-informed land management maintains riparian buffer strips and reduces agricultural runoff near key habitats.

What You Can Do

Support riparian habitat restoration projects near local waterways
Advocate for strengthened water quality regulations
Reduce pesticide use near waterways to protect invertebrate prey