15/06/2026
The mole's short black fur, spade-like forelimbs with large claws, fleshy snout, and tiny eyes are adaptations to its subterranean lifestyle. The mole is found throughout mainland Britain, but is not present in Ireland.
Habitat: Urban & gardens, upland & moorland, grassland, mixed woodland, arable land.
Description: Moles have short usually black velvety fur, with spade-like forelimbs with large claws that face towards the rear of the animal. Pink fleshy snout and tiny eyes.
Size: 113-159mm. Tail: 25-40mm.
Weight: 72-128g. Males usually larger.
Lifespan: Most moles don’t live beyond 3 years but can live up to 6 years. Their main predators are tawny owls and buzzards, stoats, cats and dogs, along with some vehicular casualties. Humans also kill many as pests of agriculture.
Read more: https://mammal.org.uk/british-mammals/mole via Mammal Society