Scalopus aquaticus (Linnaeus, 1758)

Scientific Name

Physical Characteristics

Scalopus aquaticus (Linnaeus, 1758)

The eastern mole has grey-brown fur with silver-grey underparts, a pointed nose, and a short tail. It reaches a total length of about 16 centimeters (6.3 inches), which includes a 3 centimeter (1.2 inch) long tail, and weighs around 75 grams (2.6 ounces). Its front paws are broad, spade-shaped, and specialized for digging. It has a total of 36 teeth. Its eyes are covered by fur, and its ears are not visible.

Behavior and Diet

The eastern mole spends most of its life underground, and forages for food in shallow burrows. Its diet consists of earthworms, grubs, beetles, insect larvae, and plant matter. It is mainly a solitary animal, and only comes together with other moles for mating, which occurs in early spring. Females give birth to a litter of two to five young inside a deep burrow.

Range and Habitat

In Canada, the eastern mole’s range is restricted to approximately 2,600 acres in southern Ontario, primarily within Essex and Kent Counties. This species prefers soft, sandy, or muddy soils and avoids clay or gravel soils, which means its total suitable habitat is limited.