elegant water shrew

The elegant water shrew (Nectogale elegans) is a highly specialized, amphibious mammal found in Southeast Asia. It is adapted for aquatic life, with a broad muzzle, large chest, and long hind legs for swimming. Its dense, water-repellent fur traps air for insulation. Unlike other shrews, it relies on sensitive whiskers to find prey underwater, as its sense of smell, sight, and hearing are reduced. The elegant water shrew lacks external ears and is blind, with nostrils that close to keep out water. Its feet are webbed and fringed, and its tail acts as a rudder. This species primarily eats aquatic insect larvae and nymphs.1