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Small Mammals of North Dakota

Family Soricidae

Shrews

The family Soricidae, falling under the order Insectivora, is made up of the smallest mammals, the shrews. Shrews all share the common characteristics of small size, a long and pointed snout, smaller than ordinary eyes, and short ears. This small mammal is known to have the highest metabolism of any mammal and can eat more than its body weight in a day. In North Dakota, there are three species of shrew - masked, arctic, and short-tailed. These small mammals are active year round and provide food for a number of species including weasels, hawks, owls, and rattlesnakes.

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