Controlling Nuisance Moles Robert A. Pierce Extension Fish and Wildlife Specialist, School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri-Columbia Moles are small mammals that spend most of their lives in underground burrows. They are seldom seen by humans. When seen, they frequently are mistaken for mice or shrews. It is found throughout the state.
Moles have strong legs, short necks and elongated heads.
They lack external ears, and their eyes are so small that at first glance they appear to be missing. A mole's fur is soft and brownish to grayish with silver highlights. When brushed, the fur offers no resistance in either direction, enabling the mole to travel either backward or forward within burrows. Moles prefer moist, sandy loam soils in lawns, gardens, pastures and woodlands. They generally avoid heavy, dry clay soils.