Desmans

Desmans are small, semi-aquatic mammals in the family Talpidae, subfamily Desmaninae. They comprise two living species: the Russian desman (Desmana moschata) and the Pyrenean desman (Galemys pyrenaicus).

Physically, desmans have elongated bodies, dense fur, a long flexible snout, and a paddle-like tail. Their hind feet are partially webbed, and they use their sensitive whiskers to locate prey underwater. They are adapted to an aquatic lifestyle, while retaining mole-like forelimbs for digging into riverbanks and constructing burrow systems.

Desmans inhabit rivers, streams, and associated wetlands. The Pyrenean desman is native to the Pyrenees in France and Spain, while the Russian desman occurs across parts of eastern Europe and western Asia. They typically shelter in burrow networks along watercourses and forage in the water or along the banks.

Diet consists mainly of aquatic invertebrates, including insect larvae and small crustaceans. They are primarily nocturnal or crepuscular and are generally solitary outside the breeding season.

Conservation: Desmans are threatened by habitat loss, water pollution, river modification, and wetland drainage. Their populations are fragmented and declining in many areas. They receive legal protection in several countries, and conservation measures include habitat restoration, pollution control, and monitoring programs.