Broad-footed mole
A species of Western moles Scientific name : Scapanus latimanus Genus : Western moles
Broad-footed mole, A species of Western moles
Scientific name: Scapanus latimanus
Genus: Western moles
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Sarah Murray , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The broad-footed mole can be distinguished from other species of Scapanus by its dark brown to silvery fur, and 40-44 unevenly spaced unicuspid teeth. Adults range from 14 to 18 cm in total length on average, with males slightly larger than females. Populations in more humid environments also tend to have larger individuals than those from southern, drier areas. The dental formula of Scapanus latimanus is 3.1.4.33.1.4.3 × 2 = 44. Its karyotype has 2n = 34, FN = 64. As with most moles, it requires moist, friable soils, where it eats earthworms, insects, other invertebrates and some plant matter. Scapanus latimanus is a burrowing animal that exhibits a fossorial life style living below ground for the majority of their lives. Only one animal occupies a burrow at a time and if a burrow has been vacated then it is often reoccupied within 2 days. Tunnels are typically dug far below surface level and the excess earth is removed via shafts that run laterally and vertically up to the surface. The excess earth pushed out of these shafts form distinct volcano-shaped mounds with the older earth towards the outer base and the newer earth towards the core. Shallow surface tunnels are sometimes dug and form a ridge in the soil on the surface. How often exactly these tunnels are used is unknown seeing as they are used irregularly. 
General Info
Lifespan
3-6 years
Diet
Broad-footed mole chiefly subsists on a diet of earthworms. It also ingests insects, roots, and tubers, displaying a propensity towards subterranean food resources, owing to its burrowing lifestyle.
Appearance
Broad-footed mole is a small-sized mammal with a stout, cylindrical body shape covered in course fur. This fur is primarily brown, with some individuals displaying a darker shade. The animal features small eyes, a pointy snout, and broad, spade-like forelimbs used for digging. The tail is relatively short and partially furred. No significant differences based upon age, gender, or subspecies have been noted in their appearance.
Behavior
Broad-footed mole is predominantly nocturnal, emerging after dusk for foraging. This solitary species lives in burrows, indicating territoriality. It uses its broad and powerful forepaws to dig up invertebrates, its primary food source. Notably, it displays defensive behaviour when threatened, releasing a disagreeable musk.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Mammals Order
Soricomorpha Family
Talpids Genus
Western moles Species
Broad-footed mole 
AI animal expert in your pocket
Scan QR code to download
