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Barren ground shrew

Barren ground shrew

Canada
Status
Least Concern

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
Grassland, Tundra

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
seeds, plant shoots, grasses, and wild berries

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
crepuscular

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

COMMENTS: Subgenus Otisorex. Formerly included in cinereus, but van Zyll de Jong (1976, 1991 b) provided arguments for a specific destinction of ugyunak; the taxon appears related to jacksoni and portenkoi. See Junge and Hoffmann (1981) and van Zyll de Jong (1983 a) for further information.
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of Barren ground shrew is officially designated as Least Concern. Current field registries estimate a global population composed of an unquantified number of individuals, making habitat preservation critical to maintaining their wild populations.

It is typically endemic to grassland, tundra, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of seeds, plant shoots, grasses, and wild berries. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a crepuscular activity pattern, optimizing its energy conservation and interactions within its native ecosystem. The species has a typical natural lifespan of approximately 15 years, allowing it to adapt and mature through structured generational cycles.

Ongoing biological monitoring and ecological advocacy emphasize the importance of protecting this species. The stability of its food chain and the prevention of fragmentation in its primary range are vital for the continued survival of Barren ground shrew.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeCanada
Habitat RangeGrassland, Tundra
Lifespan15 Yrs
StatusLeast Concern
ScientificSorex ugyunak
Registry Info
Lifespan15 years
KingdomAnimalia
FamilySoricidae