The Mediterranean water shrew (Neomys anomalus) is well adapted to life in the water. Bristles on its hind paws and the underside of its tail help it swim more easily. It hunts its prey both in the water and on land. It feeds on invertebrates such as insects and snails and also on small fish, tadpoles and small amphibians. It lives in marshy and riparian vegetation in river valleys, karst poljes and other lowland areas where standing or flowing water is present.