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Shrew Moles Moles and Desmans: Talpidae

Physical Characteristics, Behavior And Reproduction, Moles, Shrew Moles, Desmans, And People, Conservation StatusGEOGRAPHIC RANGE, HABITAT, DIET



EASTERN MOLE (Scalopus aquaticus): SPECIES ACCOUNTS
STAR-NOSED MOLE (Condylura cristata): SPECIES ACCOUNTS

Moles, shrew moles, and desmans are found in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and much of Europe and Asia.

About three-quarters of the species in this family live much of their lives underground. A few live above ground on land, and others spend a good deal of their time in or near the water. Those that prefer the water usually make their homes near fresh water, but a few will also enter brackish water, water that is somewhat salty.



The primary diet among the moles is insects, earthworms, centipedes, and other invertebrates, animals without backbones, but many will also eat roots and other parts of plants. Water-living species may also include frogs and fish in their diet.

Additional topics

Animal Life ResourceMammals