Scalopus aquaticus
Location: around the patio, in bluestem meadow
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Moles are insectivores and eat mainly insects, larvae such as white grubs and earthworms. They are opportunistic feeders and will eat slugs, snails, millipedes and centipedes, and spiders. Moles will also eat plants such as the seeds of corn, grasses, oats and wheat.
Moles pose no public health concerns.
While molehills and tunnels may be an inconvenience, they are evidence of a healthy ecosystem. Where possible, mole activity should be allowed. They eat large numbers of grubs and other insects, and they help aerate the soil.
In Illinois, moles are protected by the Wildlife Code. Link Link photo Genus: Scalopus (Mole) Family: Talpidae (moles) Order: Soricomorpha (moles and shrews) Class: Mammalia (Mammals) Phylum/Division: Chordata (Spinal chorded) Kingdom: Animalia (Animals) |