The 'Scilly Shrew', also known as the Lesser White-toothed Shrew (Crocidura suaveolens) is not found anywhere else in the UK. It is present on some of the Channel Islands (Jersey and Sark) as well as across mainland Europe and into Asia.

The Scilly Shrew feeds on invertebrates, including beetles, worms and sandhoppers. It can often be heard, if not seen, around the coast as they emit a soft, continuous twittering while foraging or exploring. If startled or alarmed they can produce a sharp squeak. Whilst the edges of beaches and rocky coastal slopes are places where visitors most often seen this elusive animal, they are found widely across the Isles of Scilly, including places well inland. You might see one running across a road or track just about anywhere, and most kitchens in Scilly will have had visits from Scilly Shrews at some point, to forage for crumbs on the floor or on spiders behind the fridge or washing machine.

How this species got to Scilly remains a mystery. Shrew bones have been found from archaeological digs. No other shrew species have ever been found here, and it seems most likely that the Scilly Shrew arrived as a stowaway on the boats of prehistoric traders.

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With thanks for the use of Scilly Shrew Image © Murray Guy