The European Mole, Talpa europaea, is a mammal of the order Soricomorpha. It is also known as the Common Mole and the Northern Mole.
Mole hill in Suffolk - WWC Archives
This mole lives in an underground tunnel system, which it constantly extends. It uses these tunnels to hunt its prey. Under normal conditions the displaced earth is pushed to the surface, resulting in the characteristic "mole hills".
Diet[]
It feeds mainly on earthworms, but also insects, centipedes and even mice and shrews.
Description[]
It has a cylindrical body and is around 12 cm (5 1/4 inches) long. Females are typically smaller than males. The eyes are small, and hidden behind fur. Its ear is just a small ridge in the skin. The fur is usually dark grey, but the actual range of colors is larger, as due to the subterranean habits there is no disadvantage in off-colored fur. European moles with white, light grey, tan, taupe, and black fur have all been reported.
They have whiskers on the tail which are sensitive and can detect any obstacles it may encounter underground when moving backwards. The fur can lie forwards or backwards depending on which direction the mole is traveling in.
Reproduction[]
Young are born from June to July in a nest made by the mother out of dry grass and leaves which is roughly the size of a football. Three or four young are born. The father takes no part in the bringing up of the young.
Gallery[]
Videos[]
The Mole, a gardeners nemesis
The Mole - C.N.Images