Desman Facts for Kids

The desman is a fascinating small mammal. It is related to moles and lives near water. Desmans are special because they hunt for food underwater. They are part of the Talpidae family, which includes moles.

There are only two types of desmans left in the world. Both live in parts of Europe and Asia. One type lives in Russia, and the other lives in the mountains of Spain and France, called the Pyrenees. Sadly, both types of desmans are in danger of disappearing.

What is a Desman?
Where Do Desmans Live?
What Makes Desmans Special?
What Do Desmans Eat?
Are Desmans in Danger?
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What is a Desman?

Desmans are small, furry animals. They look a bit like a mole mixed with a shrew. They have a long, flexible snout that looks like a tiny trunk. This snout is super sensitive. It helps them find food underwater.

Their bodies are perfect for swimming. They have webbed feet, like a duck's, to help them paddle through water. Their fur is thick and waterproof. This keeps them warm and dry even when they are diving. Desmans also have a long, flattened tail. It acts like a rudder, helping them steer in the water.

Where Do Desmans Live?

Desmans love to live near clean, flowing water. They prefer rivers, streams, and lakes with lots of plants. These plants provide good hiding spots and plenty of food. They build their homes, called burrows, along the banks of these waterways.

The two main types of desmans live in different places:

Russian Desman: This desman lives in parts of Russia. It prefers slow-moving rivers and lakes.
Pyrenean Desman: This desman lives in the Pyrenees mountains. These mountains are between Spain and France. It prefers fast-flowing, clear mountain streams.

What Makes Desmans Special?

Desmans are unique because they are one of the few mammals that hunt underwater using their sense of touch. Their long snout has special sensors. These sensors can detect tiny electric signals from their prey. This helps them find food even in murky water.

They are also excellent divers. They can hold their breath for several minutes. Their small eyes are not very useful underwater. So, they rely on their amazing snout and whiskers to navigate and find food.

What Do Desmans Eat?

Desmans are insectivores, which means they mainly eat insects. But they also eat other small creatures they find in the water. Their diet includes:

Water insects and their larvae
Small fish
Amphibians like frogs and newts
Small crustaceans like crayfish

They use their long snout to poke around in the mud and under rocks. This helps them find hidden prey.

Are Desmans in Danger?

Yes, both the Russian desman and the Pyrenean desman are considered vulnerable. This means they are at risk of becoming endangered. Several things threaten them:

Habitat Loss: Rivers and streams are being polluted or changed by human activities. This destroys the desmans' homes.
Water Pollution: Chemicals and waste in the water harm the desmans and their food sources.
Fishing Nets: Desmans can get caught in fishing nets and drown.
Climate Change: Changes in weather patterns can affect water levels and temperatures. This can make it harder for desmans to survive.

Many groups are working to protect desmans. They are trying to clean up rivers and create safe areas for these special animals.