The least shrew

As the weather continues to warm and the coasts begin to fill with summer crowds, Connecticut’s first mammal listed in the Endangered Species Act, the least shrew (Cryptotis parva), may be at risk. This mole-like creature inhabits only one location of Connecticut: the coastal zones of Middlesex County. They call the high dunes and adjoining salty marshes home, just like many of us.

The least shrew is an underdog, taking blows from pesticides, pollution and development in the coastal dunes and brackish waters in which they reside. In honor of Keep America Beautiful Month, it is time to cherish the little critters that make the Middlesex County seashore so special. We can help the least shrew through restoration of coastal habitat, restriction of development adjacent to salt marshes, and reduction of pesticide use close to the coast.

Maria Hoffman

Glastonbury