Soricomorpha; The Order Of Shrews & Moles
Both the true moles (Talpidae) and the shrews (Soricidae) were formerly placed in the now defunct order Insectivora along with hedgehogs (Erinaceidae); but over time the evidence suggested they required separation. Whilst shrews and moles are still linked, hedgehogs are in fact only distantly related. The change in taxonomy is recent; the hedgehogs now belong to their own order (Erinaceomorpha) with moles and shrews forming the new order Soricomorpha.
In the UK, four species exist in two families (excluding the white-toothed shrews which are limited to a few off-shore islands). The shrews of the family Soricidae and the mole (Talpa europaea) of the family Talpidae. With the mole's subterranean habits and the nocturnal habits of the others, these animals have a need for a keen sense of smell. Long snouts are typical and their brains are dominated by olfactory bulbs.
In the UK, four species exist in two families (excluding the white-toothed shrews which are limited to a few off-shore islands). The shrews of the family Soricidae and the mole (Talpa europaea) of the family Talpidae. With the mole's subterranean habits and the nocturnal habits of the others, these animals have a need for a keen sense of smell. Long snouts are typical and their brains are dominated by olfactory bulbs.