Broad-footed Mole

Scapanus latimanus

Broad-footed moles are burrowing animals that live below ground for the majority of their lives. Broad-footed moles are very territorial. They constantly patrol and defend their burrow system. They dig their tunnels far below surface level. They also dig shallow surface tunnels that form a ridge in the soil on the surface; such tunnels though are used irregularly. Broad-footed moles don't hibernate and are active year-round, both during the day and night intermittently. They are especially active after rain, most likely because of increased activity of prey, and because of easier digging.  

Family:

Talpidae  (desmans, moles, and relatives)

Description:

The broad-footed mole has dark brown, grayish, or nearly black fur, a slightly haired tail, non-hairy nose, and unevenly spaced unicuspid teeth. The front feet are broad and suitable for digging.  They can weigh up to ¼ pound and run about 7 inches in length.  Males are slightly larger than females. 

Habitat:

Their preferred habitat is moist, fairly rich soils from near sea level to approximately 9800 feet.

Range:

It is found in Baja California in Mexico and in California, Nevada and Oregon in the United States

Diet:

Broad-footed moles are carnivores. They eat earthworms, insects, other invertebrates and may also eat some plant matter. 

Breeding:

Little is known about the mating system and reproductive behavior of broad-footed moles. They breed from February to May and females give birth to 2-5 pups. Young are born in a nest made of grass and leaves in an additional tunnel within the burrow. Pups are nursed within 30-35 days and leave the nest in June.

Comments:

It is likely that more than 99% of a mole’s life is spent underground.

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