Sorex cinereus, commonly known as the masked shrew, is a small mammal found primarily in North America. It typically inhabits moist environments such as wetlands, forests, and grasslands. This shrew has a slender body, a pointed snout, and dense fur that is grayish-brown in color. The masked shrew is known for its high metabolism and voracious appetite, feeding on insects, worms, and other small invertebrates. It plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by helping to control insect populations. Despite its small size, it is an active forager, often seen scurrying through leaf litter and underbrush.