Glacier Bay water shrew facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Glacier Bay water shrew |
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| Conservation status | |
Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Mammalia |
| Order: | Eulipotyphla |
| Family: | Soricidae |
| Genus: | Sorex |
| Species: |
S. alaskanus
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| Binomial name | |
| Sorex alaskanus Merriam, 1900
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| Glacier Bay water shrew range | |
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The Glacier Bay water shrew (scientific name: Sorex alaskanus) is a fascinating tiny mammal. It belongs to the shrew family, called Soricidae. This special shrew lives only in Alaska, United States. It has amazing skills! It can swim underwater and even run across the water's surface.
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Meet the Glacier Bay Water Shrew: Alaska's Tiny Swimmer
This small creature is a true Alaskan native. It is endemic to the region. This means it is found nowhere else in the world. The Glacier Bay water shrew is known for its unique adaptations. These help it thrive in its watery home. It is a very active animal, always searching for food.
Amazing Water Skills of the Shrew
The Glacier Bay water shrew is a champion swimmer. It can dive and swim easily underwater. When it wants to stop swimming, tiny air bubbles get trapped in its fur. These bubbles act like a life vest. They help it float right back to the surface.
Running on Water: A Shrew's Superpower
Even more surprisingly, this shrew can run across the top of the water! It has special small hairs on its feet. These hairs help it to spread its weight. This allows it to move quickly without sinking. Imagine running on water like a superhero!
Water-Resistant Fur: Staying Dry in Alaska
Its fur is also very special. It is naturally water-resistant. This helps the shrew stay dry and warm. This is true even after a dip in cold water. If its fur does get wet, the shrew quickly returns to shore. It then uses its hind feet to dry itself off. This keeps it healthy and ready for its next adventure.
What Do Glacier Bay Water Shrews Eat?
These shrews are busy hunters. They mostly eat small creatures found in and around water. Their diet includes young water insects. These are often called aquatic fly nymphs. They also enjoy eating various land bugs. These are known as terrestrial invertebrates. These foods give them the energy they need for their active lifestyle.
Where Do Glacier Bay Water Shrews Live?
As its name suggests, the Glacier Bay water shrew lives in the Glacier Bay area of Alaska. This region is known for its beautiful glaciers and cold waters. The shrew makes its home near streams, rivers, and lakes. These watery habitats provide both food and shelter for this unique mammal.
See also
In Spanish: Sorex alaskanus para niños
