Common shrew

A common shrew.

Scientific name: Sorax araneus

Shrinking for winter:
This shrew already looks pretty small, but in winter this tiny mammal can shrink its skull, spine, brain, heart and lungs. Scientists think that by making themselves smaller, shrews need less food and so are more likely to survive the colder months.

Amazing ability: Shrinking its skull, spine and major organs

Where to find them: Scurrying through the undergrowth across much of Europe and Asia