The Genus Blarina is a group of small mammals that are commonly known as shrews, mole shrews or short-tailed shrews. These small creatures are native to North America and are part of the family Soricidae. The Genus Blarina includes several species, each with unique physical and behavioral characteristics. Some of the synonyms for Blarina include the common shrew, the northern short-tailed shrew, and the big-headed shrew. These shrews are an important part of the ecosystem as they help control insect populations and provide food for larger predators. Despite their small size, shrews play an important role in maintaining the balance of nature.