Desman is a common name given to two species of aquatic, insectivorous mammals that are found in Europe and Asia. They are members of the family Talpidae, which also includes moles, shrews, and other burrowing mammals.
The two species of desman are the Pyrenean desman (Galemys pyrenaicus), which is found in the Pyrenees mountains in Spain, France, and Andorra, and the Russian desman (Desmana moschata), which is found in Russia and neighboring countries.
Desmans are adapted to life in aquatic environments, with webbed feet and a long, pointed snout that is used to locate and capture small aquatic invertebrates such as insects and crustaceans. They have a waterproof fur that helps them to stay warm and dry in cold, wet environments.
Both species of desman are considered to be threatened or endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and other human activities. They are protected under national and international conservation laws, and efforts are underway to conserve their habitats and populations.
Last Updated on 12 months by pinc