Common Mole

Background

The Common Mole is very easy to identify as they are generally fairly small with the female being the smallest of the two sexes. Their eyes are small and cannot be seen as they tend to be hidden behind masses of dark grey fur and they do not have clear visible ears, their ears are ridges on their skin.

Habitat

The Common Mole is commonly found within grassy areas, urban areas, gardens and mixed woodlands. The reasoning behind these habitat preferences being soil, all of these areas possess soil which they use to dig into tunnel systems. Their whole life is spent in these tunnels apart from when looking for food, etc.

Diet

Their diet is made up of earthworms and other insects which can be found in soils. Small rodents are sometimes consumed along with occasionally vegetables.

Predators & Threats

The main predators in the UK that have been known for predating upon the Common Mole are dogs, cats (domesticated and wild) and foxes, within the US coyotes are a main predator. Another threat to mole populations comes from parasites which can infest in the moles.

Facts

• There is a toxin which can be found in the saliva of moles and it is strong enough to incapacitate earthworms and other insects. This makes them easier to prey upon.

Best Time to Look

Spring-Autumn.