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Variability of five microsatellite loci was studied in the common shrew S. araneus belonging to the Moscow chromosomal race. Three local samples (n = 39) from the sites situated at a minimum distance from each other (350–700 m) were examined. The studied samples were characterized by high allelic diversity along with considerable genetic differentiation of the population. Pairwise comparisons revealed statistically significant difference between the samples, with the highest genetic differences observed at a minimum geographic distance. To explain the causes of the population genetic heterogeneity, analysis of the population demographic patterns at the sampling sites and neighboring areas was carried out. The data obtained were consistent with the models of Altukhov's population system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]