The upper parts are slate-colored, and the underparts are only slightly paler. The body is robust, the snout is pointed, the eyes are small, and the ears are hidden by the fur. The only mammalian genus in its range that resembles Blarina is Cryptotis, which is smaller, browner in color, and lighter underneath.
Females have six mammae.
The submaxillary glands secrete a poison that acts on the nerves of creatures bitten by these shrews. It is quickly effective on small animals and can cause pain for several days in humans. Short-tailed shrews are found in nearly all land habitats. Runways in leaves, plant debris, or snow and subterranean burrows are constructed with the strong paws and stout cartilaginous nose. Surface and subsurface runways of moles and rodents are also used.