This creature is found predominantly in the freshwater basins of Russia and neighboring regions like Ukraine and Kazakhstan. Its existence is closely tied to clean, slow-moving rivers, lakes, and ponds where it can thrive.

Physically, the Russian desman is notable for its elongated body with a tail almost the same length. The tail is distinctive, being flattened horizontally like a paddle, which aids in its swimming. Its fur is dense and silky, with an oily texture that provides waterproofing and insulation, allowing the desman to remain active even in cold waters. Its limbs are small, but its hind feet are fully webbed, which, along with its tail, makes it an excellent swimmer.

Behaviorally, the Russian desman is nocturnal and mostly solitary except during the breeding season or when a mother is raising her young. It constructs elaborate burrows along the banks of its aquatic habitats, with tunnels that can extend up to several meters in length and include multiple chambers for nesting and food storage. Some entrances to these burrows are underwater, offering protection from predators.

One interesting aspect of the Russian desman’s biology is a musk gland located near the base of its tail. This gland secretes a strong-smelling musk used for marking territory or possibly for communication with other desmans, particularly during the breeding season.

Unfortunately, the Russian desman is considered vulnerable to extinction due to several environmental threats. Its numbers have drastically declined over the past century due to habitat loss from the draining of wetlands and pollution of water bodies. Additionally, the construction of dams and other alterations to watercourses have disrupted its natural habitat.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Belarus

Official estimate

EX

Extinct locally

Kazakhstan

2023

Lithuania

Official estimate

EX

Extinct locally, Introduced

Moldova

Official estimate

EX

Extinct locally, Origin Uncertain

Russia

2023

European Russia

Ukraine

2023