This animal has just been photographed alive for the first time 📸

After more than twenty years without any sightings, the Mount Lyell shrew, a small and elusive mammal, has finally been captured in images by passionate students. This discovery marks a significant milestone in understanding this little-known species.

This shrew, first identified in 1902, inhabits the mountainous regions of the Sierra Nevada. Despite its small size and predominantly subterranean lifestyle, it plays an important ecological role. Researchers hope that these images will contribute to a better understanding and protection of this vulnerable species.

A nocturnal quest for a small mammal

Vishal Subramanyan, Prakrit Jain, and Harper Forbes, three students from the University of Berkeley, spent several nights tracking this shrew. Armed with traps and patience, they successfully captured several live specimens.

Their method involved baited traps with worms and cat food, checked every two hours. This rigor was necessary due to the animals' fast metabolism, which prevents them from surviving long without food.

A little-known but resilient species

The Mount Lyell shrew, though small, is highly agile and can even be aggressive. Genetic analyses confirmed the identity of the captured specimens, ending decades of uncertainty.

These observations provide a better understanding of the species' behavior, including its feeding habits and micro-naps. These details are crucial for assessing the threats it faces.

A habitat threatened by climate change

Researchers warn about the vulnerability of this shrew to climate change. According to recent studies, 50 to 90% of its habitat could disappear by 2080.

The loss of these cold mountainous areas would jeopardize the species' survival. The photographs and data collected are therefore essential for raising public awareness and guiding conservation efforts.

A step forward for biodiversity

This discovery highlights the importance of documenting little-known species. The images taken by the students will be integrated into scientific databases, facilitating future research.

By sharing these photos, researchers hope to spark interest in protecting these small mammals, often overlooked despite their essential ecological role.

To go further: What is the Mount Lyell shrew?

The Mount Lyell shrew (Sorex lyelli) is a small insectivorous mammal living in the mountainous regions of the Sierra Nevada in California. Measuring about 4 inches (10 cm) and weighing only a few grams, this species is known for its discreet lifestyle and underground habitat.

First identified in 1902, it remains one of the least documented species. This shrew plays an important ecological role by regulating insect populations and serving as prey for predators like snakes and owls. Despite its resilience, it is threatened by the gradual loss of its habitat due to climate change.

The recent photographs of live specimens finally allow for the study of its behavior and a better understanding of its needs to ensure its conservation. These discoveries underscore the importance of protecting little-known but essential species in their ecosystem.