Some regularities of seasonal and age-related changes in body weight in the life cycle of the common shrew (Sorex araneus L.)

Long-term research in Karelia (weight indicators of 1,080 animals were analyzed) detected the regular seasonal age-related changes in body weight of the common shrew. During the first months of life young animals reach about the half of the size of adults, then their weight growth stabilizes, and after that there is a distinct winter depression. In the spring, a "growth spurt" takes place, and in the autumn, after the end of the breeding season, a new weight loss and the completion of the life cycle are observed. These processes perform the important adaptive function and are aimed at providing optimal conditions for wintering and successful reproduction of the population.