European mole

The European mole, also known as the common mole or northern mole, is a small mammal belonging to the order Eulipotyphla. This intriguing creature spends the majority of its life in an ever-expanding network of tunnels. These tunnels serve as hunting grounds for the mole's preferred prey: earthworms, insects, centipedes, mice, and shrews. Remarkably, the mole’s saliva contains toxins that can paralyze earthworms, making them easier to capture.

Physically, the European mole has a cylindrical body that typically measures between 11 to 16 cm in length and weighs around 70 to 130 grams. Its fur is generally dark grey, though some color variations do exist.

Although the mole primarily resides underground, it is not confined to a subterranean existence. It can adapt to various environments based on factors such as soil type and food availability. The mole has a brief breeding season in the spring, with a gestation period lasting four to five weeks. Females usually give birth to litters of two to seven offspring. To maintain its energy levels, the European mole consumes about half its body weight in food daily, primarily feeding on earthworms.

Contrary to popular belief, the European mole is not completely blind. It has rudimentary eyes capable of detecting movement and some colors, aiding in spotting predators within its tunnels. Although the mole lacks external ears, it is believed to hear low-frequency sounds, which assist in its underground navigation.

The European mole’s body is perfectly adapted for its burrowing lifestyle. Its skeletal structure facilitates efficient digging and movement through the soil. Variations in dentition among species, such as the Roman mole and European mole, provide valuable insights for paleontologists studying fossilized remains.