European Mole

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FAQ

EUROPEAN MOLE

HABITS
Moles are active during the day and and night, digging their tunnels and searching for food. Mole tunnels vary in depth from just below the surface to 28 inches beneath the ground. When moles dig close to the surface, they make piles of dirt called molehills.

BREEDING

Moles have an exceptionally short breeding season; the male goes to the female's tunnel, where mating takes place. He then leaves the female and she raises the young alone.

Birth takes place from April to June, and the young are born in a special nest chamber dug by the female. Naked at birth, the young develop rapidly, feeding on their mother's milk. They are covered with fur after 14 days and are ready to leave the nest after 35 days.

KEY FACTS

SIZE

Length: 4 to 6 inches
Weight: About 4 oz. (Males are bigger than females)

BREEDING

        Sexual maturity: About 10 months
      Mating:               March-May
        Gestation:           30 days
        No. in litter:        2-7 (Average 4)

LIFESTYLE

        Habit:                 Solitary, except in breeding season
        Diet:                  Earthworms and insect larvae
        Lifespan:            Up to 3 years

DID YOU KNOW?

Moles will avoid very wet ground when possible, yet they are strong swimmers
When moles are feeding entirely on earthworms, they do not need to drink because earthworms consist of 85 percent water
A mole's skin is more sensitive to touch than that of any other mammal
Moles makes various noises, including squeaks and purrs

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