Basal rate of metabolism and temperature regulation in Sorex coronatus and S. minutus (Soricidae: Mammalia).

1. The basal rate of metabolism (BMR), body temperature and thermal conductance of Sorex minutus and Sorex coronatus were studied. Special attention was given to measuring BMR in resting and postabsorptive shrews. 2. Both species exhibit a high BMR, respectively 339 and 289% of the value expected on the basis of body mass. 3. The thermal conductance of both species is similar to the predicted value and their body temperature averages 38.6 and 37.6 degrees C respectively. 4. Available data suggest that a very high BMR may be a common feature within the genus Sorex.