Daily Activity of Short-tailed Shrews (Blarina brevicauda) in Simulated Natural Conditions

Long-term measurements of the activity of eight short-tailed shrews (Blarina) were made in simulated natural conditions. A significant correlation (p < 0.01) between total daily locomotor activity out of the nest and ambient temperature was found. Maximum activity levels (> 30%) were observed in summer. Temperature was significantly correlated to activity near midnight, but time active out of the nest during midday remained near 10% regardless of temperature. These shrews appeared to adjust their activity levels and patterns to avoid temperature extremes.