Small, burrowing mammals often evoke curiosity, and among them, shrews and moles are frequently mistaken for one another. Despite their superficial resemblances, these creatures belong to distinct biological classifications, each possessing unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in their respective environments. Understanding their differences reveals a fascinating world of specialized traits and behaviors.
How to Tell Them Apart
Distinguishing between shrews and moles involves observing key physical and behavioral characteristics. Moles are larger, measuring 4 to 8 inches in length and weighing 8 to 20 ounces, while shrews are smaller, ranging from 1 to 6 inches long with a weight of 1 to 4 ounces. A mole’s snout is fleshy and pointed with a flat, pig-like front, whereas a shrew’s snout is elongated, slender, and covered in fur.
Moles possess tiny eyes, often hidden by fur, and lack visible external ears. Shrews, conversely, have small but discernible eyes and ears that, while not prominent, are visible. A mole’s fur is velvety, allowing them to move backward or forward through their tunnels without resistance. Shrew fur is also short but does not share this velvety texture.
The most striking difference lies in their forepaws. Moles have enlarged, paddle-like front feet with powerful claws, adapted for extensive digging. Shrews, however, have smaller, unspecialized front feet resembling those of typical rodents.
Moles are primarily subterranean, spending most of their lives underground creating tunnel networks. These tunnels, visible as raised ridges or molehills on the surface, serve as their hunting grounds and shelter. Shrews, while capable of digging, often forage above ground in leaf litter and dense vegetation, or utilize existing tunnels created by other animals. Consequently, shrews are more frequently encountered on the surface.
Their diets also vary. Moles are strict insectivores, consuming earthworms, grubs, and other soil-dwelling insects within their tunnel systems. Shrews, driven by a high metabolism, have a more diverse diet, feeding on various invertebrates such as insects, spiders, and worms, and occasionally small vertebrates like mice or young birds. They must eat almost constantly to sustain their energy levels. Both shrews and moles belong to the order Eulipotyphla, but are classified into separate families: Soricidae for shrews and Talpidae for moles.
Why the Confusion
The common confusion between shrews and moles stems from superficial similarities and their secretive natures. Both animals share a general appearance as small, dark-furred creatures with similar body shapes and pointed snouts. This resemblance often leads to misidentification by the casual observer. People might not have the opportunity to closely examine either animal.
Both shrews and moles inhabit subterranean or near-surface environments, preferring secluded spaces, making them difficult to observe directly. Their shared preference for hidden habitats, coupled with their digging, contributes to the assumption they are the same animal. Without a detailed understanding of their distinguishing features, many rely on a broad perception of “small, burrowing creatures,” leading to ongoing confusion.