Short-faced Mole (Scientific Name: Scalopus aquaticus)

Common Name: Short-faced Mole
Scientific Name: Scalopus aquaticus

Habitat

The Short-faced Mole is primarily found in the eastern United States, particularly in regions with moist, well-drained soils. It thrives in a variety of environments, including deciduous forests, grasslands, and suburban areas. Its preferred habitat is often characterized by loose, sandy or loamy soil that facilitates its burrowing behavior.

Physical Characteristics

Short-faced Moles are relatively small mammals, typically measuring 6 to 8 inches in length. They possess a distinctive pointed snout and are notable for their short, furry bodies that are well adapted for underground life. Their fur is generally a dark brown or gray color, providing them with excellent camouflage in their natural habitat. Their large front paws are shovel-like, aiding in their digging activities.

Behavior

These moles are primarily nocturnal and spend most of their lives underground. They exhibit solitary behavior, coming together only to mate. Short-faced Moles are known for their impressive digging skills, creating extensive burrow systems that can span several feet. During the day, they remain in their burrows, which helps them avoid predators such as owls and foxes.

Diet

The diet of the Short-faced Mole is composed mainly of earthworms, insects, and other small invertebrates. They utilize their sensitive snouts to detect prey in the soil. Their foraging behavior includes digging through the ground to unearth food sources, which makes them efficient hunters in their subterranean environment.

Reproduction

Short-faced Moles typically breed in the spring, with a gestation period of about four weeks. Females usually give birth to litters of two to five offspring. Young moles are born hairless and blind but grow rapidly, becoming independent by late summer. Parental care is primarily provided by the mother, who feeds and protects the young until they are ready to venture out on their own.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of the Short-faced Mole is currently classified as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, habitat destruction and urbanization pose potential threats to their populations in certain areas.

Interesting Facts

Despite their subterranean lifestyle, Short-faced Moles are excellent swimmers. They can often be seen in wet habitats, such as marshes and streams, using their webbed feet to propel themselves through the water. Furthermore, these moles have a unique way of sensing their environment through the use of their highly developed facial whiskers.

Role in Ecosystem

The Short-faced Mole plays a crucial role in its ecosystem by aerating the soil and controlling insect populations. Their burrowing activities help improve soil quality, promoting healthier plant growth. In turn, they serve as prey for larger predators, thus contributing to the food web dynamics within their habitat.