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Where do true shrews live around the world?

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water shrew — shrew Water shrew (*Neomys anomalus*).

True shrews (family Soricidae) have a wide global distribution, inhabiting every continent except Australia and Antarctica.1

Their geographic range includes:
* North America: Found throughout the continent, extending into the northwestern portion of South America.21
* Africa: A major stronghold for the family, with more than 40 percent of all living species indigenous to the continent.2
* Eurasia: Widely distributed across Europe and Asia.2
* Islands: They are found on various island groups east of mainland Asia, reaching as far as the Aru Islands on the Australian continental shelf. Additionally, certain species have been introduced to Madagascar and various Pacific and Indian Ocean islands.2

These mammals are highly adaptable, thriving in diverse environments ranging from tundra and forests to grasslands and deserts.2