Habitat variables affecting the occurrence of Neomys fodiens (Mammalia, Insectivora) in Kent, UK

The habitat variables affecting the occurrence of water shrews Neomys fodie ns were investigated in Kent, southern England (UK). The distribution of th e water shrew was determined from seats left in bait tubes placed at chosen sites. Water shrews were found at 20 of the 41 sites investigated. The two major factors that determined the presence of water shrews at a site were found to be the presence of freshwater crustaceans (positive) and the prese nce of short grass (negative). Although aquatic prey and bank management pl ayed predominant roles in deciding whether shrews were present at a site, i t is likely that other factors (notably water quality) also play a role in determining site occupancy. The evidence suggests that the actions of man i n managing riparian environments can be detrimental to the water shrew, and may result in local absences of N. fodiens.