Mole pups, the young ones of these fascinating creatures, possess numerous intriguing characteristics that might surprise you. Are you aware that they lack the ability to see colors or that the term “baby moles” is synonymous with “pups”? Delve deeper into this article to discover five amazing facts about these captivating small mammals that may be new to you.
These facts will shed light on the unique aspects of mole pups, offering an interesting perspective on these often-overlooked animals. By understanding more about their lives and traits, you may develop a newfound appreciation for these subterranean dwellers. So, let’s embark on this fun-filled journey to learn more about the marvels that mole pups hold.
1: Baby Moles are Known as Pups!
In an adorable turn of events, young moles are actually referred to as pups, just like baby dogs! This term isn’t solely reserved for the little moles, though. Other creatures such as bats, coyotes, and dolphins also lovingly label their young as pups.
2: There are No Baby Moles in Ireland
Baby moles, primarily found in Europe, Asia, and North America, are solitary creatures known for their digging habits and spending most of their lives in underground burrows. Interestingly, despite moles inhabiting many parts of Europe, Ireland has no mole population.
The absence of moles in Ireland remains a mystery, but a plausible theory involves the Ice Age. During that time, a significant rise in sea levels likely prevented moles from reaching Ireland. This phenomenon might also account for the lack of other species in the country, such as weasels and specific bat types.
3: Male Moles Prepare for Mating Season in a Unique Way
Moles, being predominantly subterranean creatures, have developed fascinating strategies to cope with mating season. Late winter is the prime time for baby moles to be conceived, and this period involves two distinct phases for mole parents, each serving a unique purpose.
In phase one, male moles concentrate on expanding their tunnel systems to connect with multiple female moles. By enlarging their tunnels and linking them to other underground territories, males create pathways for female moles to discover and visit them. This approach increases the chances of successful mating during the season.
Following successful conception, phase two focuses on establishing a safe and comfortable environment for the newborn moles. Both mother and father moles collaborate in digging out a spherical underground chamber, which they then line with dry plant material to form a snug nest for the forthcoming litter.
Newborn moles come into the world in litters of three to four, without any fur and completely reliant on their mother’s milk. However, by the time they reach five to six weeks of age, the young moles are fully weaned and ready to begin their own independent journey. Now capable of venturing into the world, they depart from their family to lead solitary lives within the vast subterranean landscape.
4: Mole Pups Have a Strong Affinity for Earthworms
Contrary to popular belief, baby moles are not after plant roots in gardens they burrow under. Instead, these little creatures have a keen preference for their favorite food: earthworms. Earthworms, which feed on plant matter, are abundant in gardens, making these areas attractive to mole pups.
The presence of moles in gardens can lead to soil damage, but not because they consume plant roots. Their burrowing activities are the actual cause of the destruction.
Moles are quite passionate about their love for earthworms. So much so, they can eat their body weight in worms within a single day. For an adult mole, this would amount to about 75 grams of delicious worms.
- Earthworms are the primary food source for mole pups.
- Gardens attract moles due to the abundance of earthworms.
- Soil destruction in gardens is a result of mole burrowing, not plant root consumption.
- Moles can consume their body weight in earthworms daily.
5: Mole Babies Have Tiny Eyes
Baby moles may appear to be eyeless creatures due to their habit of living in the dark underground. However, they do possess eyes, although these eyes differ considerably from those of other animals.
Located behind the mole pup’s snout, these minuscule eyes are concealed by a thin membrane. This makes it difficult to notice them and also contributes to their extremely poor eyesight. Moles are unable to see colors, but their eyes do help them detect changes in light levels.
To compensate for their lack of vision, moles count on other senses such as the ability to sense ground vibrations. This skill enables them to identify nearby threats and potential dangers. Moles are neither nocturnal nor diurnal but tend to be more active during early mornings and nights when there is less ground movement.
Interestingly, moles have a peculiar sleeping pattern, taking short four-hour naps and being ready to go about their activities once they have had enough rest, regardless of the time of day.
Q&A: Facts About Baby Moles
- Mole Pup Terminology: Just like baby hedgehogs, otters, and rats, baby moles are referred to as pups.
- Mole Pup Weight: These tiny creatures have an incredibly small weight, ranging from 2.5 to 4.5 ounces when they are born.
- Diet of Mole Pups: As mammals, mole pups rely on their mother’s milk for nourishment during their first month. After this, they shift to a diet mainly consisting of insects, with earthworms being their top favorite.
- Habitat of Baby Moles: Baby moles can be found across North America, Europe, and Asia, where they live in underground tunnels and burrows.
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