Common Name: Greater Chinese Mole

Scientific Name: Talpa altaica

Habitat:

The Greater Chinese Mole is primarily found in the mountainous regions of northern China, specifically in areas such as Northeast China and Inner Mongolia. This species favors humid environments, often dwelling in forests, grasslands, and agricultural fields, where moist soil supports their burrowing lifestyle. These habitats provide them with ample access to their prey and offer the necessary conditions for their survival.

Physical Characteristics:

The Greater Chinese Mole typically measures about 20 to 30 centimeters in length, including its short tail. Its fur is thick and velvety, exhibiting a dark brown to black coloration that aids in camouflage within its habitat. Notable features include powerful forelimbs adapted for digging, a pointed snout, and small eyes that are covered with fur, reflecting its fossorial lifestyle. The combination of these physical traits makes the Greater Chinese Mole a unique and efficient underground resident.

Behavior:

This species is primarily nocturnal, exhibiting solitary behavior outside of the breeding season. Greater Chinese Moles are exceptional diggers, often creating a complex network of tunnels underground. They are known for their keen sense of smell and touch, which they rely on to navigate in complete darkness. Their remarkable digging skills not only facilitate their foraging efforts but also aerate the soil, playing a vital role in their ecosystem.

Diet:

The diet of the Greater Chinese Mole mainly consists of earthworms, grubs, and various soil invertebrates. They possess a specialized digestive system to process their prey efficiently. This feeding habit contributes to soil health as they help control pest populations and enrich the soil through their burrowing activities.

Reproduction:

The breeding season for the Greater Chinese Mole typically occurs in late spring to early summer. Females give birth to a litter of 2 to 5 young after a gestation period of approximately 4 to 5 weeks. The young are born blind and helpless but quickly develop and begin foraging independently within a few weeks after birth, indicating a rapid maturation process.

Conservation Status:

Currently, the Greater Chinese Mole is classified as vulnerable due to habitat loss, primarily from agricultural expansion and urban development. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect their remaining habitats and ensure the survival of the species.

Interesting Facts:

One fascinating aspect of the Greater Chinese Mole is its ability to survive in environments with low oxygen levels, thanks to its unique respiratory system. Additionally, their tunnels can stretch over 100 meters, showcasing their extensive burrowing capabilities. They are also known for their role in folklore in some regions, where they are viewed as symbols of fertility and agriculture.

Role in Ecosystem:

The Greater Chinese Mole plays a significant role in its ecosystem as a soil aerator and pest control agent. By tunneling through the soil, they improve soil structure and promote nutrient cycling, which is beneficial for plant growth. Their foraging habits also help maintain invertebrate populations in balance, highlighting their importance in local biodiversity.