House shrew (Crocidura russula)

Size:

• Head-body length: 6.5 - 8.5 cm
• Tail length: 3.5 - 4.5 cm
• Weight: 6 - 15 g

Look:

• Fur color: Grey-brown fur
• Tail: Thin and shorter than body
• Ears: Small ears
• Snout: Pointed

Life cycle:

• Reproduction: From an age of 3-7 months
• Gestation period: 28 - 33 days
• Litter size: 4 - 11 puppies
• Lifespan: 12 - 18 months

Habitat:

• The common shrew inhabits warm, open, treeless habitats such as meadows, hedgerows, and gardens. In winter, it increasingly seeks refuge in houses and is often mistaken for a house mouse or wood mouse.

Nutrition:

• Insectivores

Behave:

• Social: Lives in groups
• After about seven days, the young shrews follow their mother, each grasping the other at the front of her tail. This creates the typical caravan formation for shrews.

No dangers:

• No danger

Disease transmission:

• Suspected of carrying the Borna virus. Avoid contact with feces and contaminated food.

Food:

• Store food and drinks safely and check storage areas regularly.
• Dispose of food scraps and waste in sealable containers.

Hygiene:

• Do not leave open garbage cans or bags.
• Regular cleaning of surfaces and rooms

House and garden:

• Seal cracks, crevices and possible access points (>6mm) on houses.
• Consult a pest control expert for comprehensive advice.

Behave:

• Use traps and baits only in consultation with pest control professionals. Do not handle the animals directly without protective measures.

Garden maintenance:

• Regularly collect fallen fruit in the garden.
• Store compost heaps far away from the building