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The Eurasian Pygmy Shrew (Sorex minutus) or commonly known as the Pygmy Shrew is of the family Soricidae which is in the genus Sorex. It has a widespread distribution in Europe as well as parts of western and central Asia. It is very rarely seen out in the open and normally remains concealed in the undergrowth where it hunts a variety of invertebrates.
Up until 2008 it was the only shrew found in Ireland. Researchers investigating the high successful breeding rate of Barn Owls in a region of southeast Ireland discovered the remains of Greater White-toothed Shrews (Crocidura russula) in the owl pellets. This much larger and more robust shrew, which was probably accidental introduced in imported hay, has since become more widespread and has lead to the decline of the indigenous Pygmy Shrew in the newly colonised areas.
Patrick J. O'Keeffe / Raw Birds
Patrick J. O'Keeffe / Raw Birds