Nothing in Basket!
It's mid February, and as reliably as the turning of the year, moles have made their presence known in my garden. While I'm happy to share my space with these fascinating creatures, my neighbour, whose property they dig through to reach mine, isn't quite so enthusiastic. The unfortunate reality is that pest control will soon be called in. I sincerely hope that when they are removed, they're relocated to our local nature reserve, though I suspect that might be wishful thinking.
The European Mole (Talpa Europaea) is a stout, brown mammal perfectly adapted to its subterranean lifestyle. Equipped with powerful, spade-like paws, they spend their days burrowing through the earth, diligently hunting for their primary food source: earthworms.
These compact creatures measure around 15cm in length, with an additional 4cm tail, and weigh between 70-130g. They typically live for 3-4 years and are a common sight (or rather, their molehills are) throughout the year.
Moles are rarely seen directly, given their hidden existence underground. Their stocky bodies, wedge-shaped profile, and short tails are perfectly suited for navigating their tunnel systems. Those impressive front paws aren't just for digging; they're essential tools for hunting earthworms and other subterranean grubs. Interestingly, by consuming these grubs, which often feed on crops, moles can actually be beneficial to gardeners!
Beyond pest control, moles play a vital role in maintaining healthy soil. Their tunnelling activities aerate the soil, creating a more hospitable environment for a wider variety of plants. This, in turn, supports a larger insect population. Furthermore, their tunnels improve soil drainage, reducing the risk of flooding and water logging. These unassuming creatures are truly unsung heroes of the ecosystem.
While spotting a mole itself is a rare treat, their presence is usually announced by molehills - those characteristic mounds of earth pushed up from their burrowing. The mole itself is a distinctive animal: covered in velvety black fur, with tiny eyes, a long, pink nose, and those unmistakable, large, shovel-like front paws.
Moles are widespread across much of Britain, although they are absent from the Isles of Scilly, most Scottish islands, the Isle of Man, and Northern Ireland. They thrive in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, farmlands, orchards, woodlands, and even towns and gardens.
The increasing prevalence of paved surfaces and hardscaped gardens is shrinking the natural habitats available to moles. Consider contributing to "greening the grey" by making your garden a haven for wildlife. Even small changes can make a big difference
If you enjoyed reading about moles, you might also like my blog about Barn owls, you can find it here:
Everything You Need To Know About Barn Owls
Nothing in Basket!