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Shrews shrink organs to survive winter (Level A1) — the shadow of a tree on the ground

Shrews shrink organs to survive winterCEFR A1

10 Feb 2026

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Adapted from Gregory Filiano-Stony Brook, Futurity • CC BY 4.0

Photo by Jens Aber, Unsplash

Level A1 – Beginner
2 min
77 words
  • Small shrews shrink their brains during the winter.
  • Their other organs and body parts shrink too.
  • This seasonal change reduces the animals' energy needs.
  • In spring the organs return to normal size.
  • Scientists studied how the shrinking and regrowth occur.
  • They examined genes and chromosome arrangement in shrews.
  • The shrews remain active even when food is scarce.
  • A group of researchers published papers about this.
  • The change is called Dehnel's phenomenon.
  • This helps shrews survive cold months.

Difficult words

  • shrew — a small wild mammal like a mouse
    shrews
  • shrink — become much smaller in size
    shrinking
  • organ — a body part with a job
    organs
  • seasonal — happening every year at certain times
  • gene — a small part of DNA that controls traits
    genes
  • chromosome — a long thread of DNA in cells

Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.

Discussion questions

  • Do you see animals in winter where you live?
  • Are you active in winter or do you rest more?
  • Would you like to see a shrew?

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