Moles are truly fascinating and specialist mammals who cannot only survive but thrive in the harsh environment they live in. They are specialists in their field (excuse the pun) and have evolved their bodies and actions to make the very best of their often inhospitable environment. Many people have never seen a mole some have only seen “Moley” character in Wind in the Willows and believe they are as large as a cat. Most of my clients find it hard to believe that such a small animal can cause so much damage to their land.
Vital Statistics of a mole – 6 inches long, Approx 60 to 80 grams in weight, lives for approx. 2 – 5 years.
Moles have a cylindrical shape which enables them to travel through their tunnel system and dig through soil extremely efficiently. They are very muscular at their front end which enables their specially adapted front paws to propel through the soil. The front paws have an unusual feature in that they have a second thumb. This thumb is a sickle-shaped bone that sits alongside the regular thumb and gives added width and strength for digging and shifting soil.