Least Shrew

The least shrew ( Cryptotis parva) was thought to be widespread throughout much of Pennsylvania, although mainly in localized populations, during the mid-1900s. During that period, surveys conducted across the state found this mid-sized insectivore in every region of Pennsylvania except the northcentral counties. More recent surveys suggest the least shrew has now disappeared from many of the sites where it was once present and that it now is restricted to southeastern counties. Since 1990, surveys have found the least shrew at only three isolated sites in York and Adams counties, with possibly one of the most extensive populations occurring within the Eisenhower National Historic Site near Gettysburg. Unknown isolated populations may still occur elsewhere in the state. If so, they would most likely be in jeopardy of localized extirpation. Pennsylvania listed the least shrew as endangered in 1990. The species is found throughout much of the eastern United States, ranging from New York south to Florida and through the Midwest into Central America. The least shrew appears to be secure globally.
Category:Moles
Category:Mammals
Category:Wildlife