The Hairy-tailed mole (Parascalops breweri) is a species of mole found in eastern North America, including Connecticut. Here are some key biological features of this species:
- Appearance: The Hairy-tailed mole has dark brown or black fur and a long, pointed snout. It is named for the long, coarse hairs on its tail, which give it a "hairy" appearance.
- Size: Adult Hairy-tailed moles typically range in size from 5 to 6 inches in length and weigh between 1 and 1.5 ounces.
- Diet: Hairy-tailed moles are insectivores, and their primary food source is earthworms. They also eat other soil-dwelling invertebrates, such as ants, beetles, and grubs.
- Behavior: Hairy-tailed moles are fossorial, meaning they spend most of their time underground. They are solitary animals and are active year-round, burrowing through the soil in search of food. They are capable of digging tunnels at a rate of up to 18 feet per hour.
- Reproduction: Hairy-tailed moles breed in the late winter or early spring, and females give birth to litters of 2 to 6 young in April or May. The young are born blind and hairless and remain in the nest for several weeks before venturing out on their own.
- Conservation status: The Hairy-tailed mole is not currently considered to be a threatened or endangered species in Connecticut.
The Hairy-tailed mole (Parascalops breweri) is a species of mole found in eastern North America, including Connecticut. In Connecticut, Hairy-tailed moles are found throughout the state in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, wetlands, and suburban areas.
Hairy-tailed moles are fossorial, meaning they spend most of their time underground. They prefer moist, loamy soils with abundant earthworms and other invertebrates, which are their primary food source. They can often be found in areas with dense vegetation, as this provides cover and food for them.
If you're interested in learning more about the distribution and habitat of the Hairy-tailed mole in Connecticut, you may want to consult with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) or other local wildlife organizations for more specific information.