It uses powerful forefeet to crush a grub or worm against the tunnel wall. But if the prey does put up a struggle, the mole may simply heap a little dirt on it and bite its head off. Although moles hear well, they have no external ears to interfere with life in the soil. Their eyes are covered with fused eyelids and can do little more than distinguish between light and dark. The short, blackish fur is plush and will lay flat when stroked from either direction, offering no resistance as a mole moves forward or backward through its tunnel.
Moles are solitary creatures except during the brief spring mating season.
May. Other than this time, moles that meet during their limited travels attack each other and will continue to fight until one retreats or is killed. About 28 to 45 days after breeding the female gives birth to her annual litter, usually four, in a grass-lined nest located 1 to 2 feet below the surface. Before setting out your next mole trap, take a little time to appreciate these efficient soil engineers. Maybe a few ridges in your lawn aren't so bad after all. Susan Post, Center for Economic Entomology.