Carraway's Gray Shrew is one of the most recently described species in the genus Notiosorex, separated in 2024 by genetic analysis of populations previously included within Crawford's Shrew (Notiosorex crawfordi). Like others in the genus, it is a tiny mammal, barely larger than a coin, living hidden among the leaf litter and desert scrub. It is rarely seen, though it can be detected by its remains in owl pellets. Due to its recent separation, very little specific information has yet been published on its biology, beyond the genetic characteristics that distinguish it from its close relatives.
Like other desert shrews of the genus Notiosorex, Carraway's Gray Shrew is tiny, with grey-brown fur, a pointed snout, and very small ears barely visible in the fur. There are no external characteristics that reliably distinguish it from other species in the genus (N. crawfordi, N. cockrumi, N. tataticuli); its separation is based on genetic and cranial analysis, not on features visible in the field.
Its minimal weight means Carraway's Gray Shrew barely leaves recognisable tracks, except in fine ash or very loose dust. There, tiny tracks and signs less than 1 cm wide may be seen. Its droppings, cylindrical and 3-4 mm long, with visible arthropod remains, are almost indistinguishable by size from those of other sympatric shrews. The most common way to confirm its presence is through remains found in owl pellets from owls and other nocturnal raptors that hunt in its habitat.
Insects and other arthropods, like the rest of the genus.
Carraway's Gray Shrew is solitary and primarily nocturnal, as with other desert shrews. There are no specific published data on its reproduction.
Described in 2024, Carraway's Gray Shrew does not yet have an assessment on the IUCN Red List; its conservation status is, for now, unknown.
Specific assessed threats are unknown; by analogy with other desert shrews, the loss of scrub and leaf litter due to changes in land use could affect Carraway's Gray Shrew.
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