Pray handling times and partial prey consumption in five species of European Shrews (Soricidae, Insectivora)

Prey handling times for meal-worms were measured in the common shrew (Sorex araneus Linnaeus, 1758), the pygmy shrew (S. minutus Linnaeus, 1766), the European water shrew ( Neomys fodiens (Pennant, 1771), Miller`s water shrew (N. anomalus Cabrera, 1907) and the lesser white-toothed shrew (Crocidura suaveolens (Pallas, 1811). The ranking corresponds with the body mass of the shrew species, water shrews eating fastest and pygmy shrews slowest. Eating patterns as revealed by food remains are evaluated and the significance of partial prey consumption is discussed.