This species is semi-aquatic (Lunde and Musser 2002). In China it occurs in high-altitude areas between 1,700-3,500 m asl, where it is found in or adjacent to cool mountain streams, often in forest. In Myanmar, individuals were recorded in high altitudes between 1,570-3,100 m asl. Very little is known about this species, but it is likely to be altitudinally allopatric with the Himalayan Water Shrew, although they are geographically sympatric. It is morphologically distinct from other members of its genus, as it lacks the brown body color, and is predominantly grey.

This species distribution ranges widely in China, where it is found in southeastern Xizang (Tibet), northern and western Yunnan, Sichuan, southern Qinghai, and southern Gansu (Smith et al. 2008). It also extends into northern Myanmar, and might possibly occur in Arunachal Pradesh in northeastern India, though there are not records. Its elevational range is 1,570-3,500 m asl.

It presumably occurs in several protected areas. Further studies are needed on the distribution, abundance, natural history, threats and conservation needs of this species.