Moles are subterranean mammals known for their powerful front paws adapted for digging. They spend nearly their entire lives underground, creating intricate tunnel systems. Their presence is often indicated by molehills, conical mounds of excavated soil found in lawns and gardens. Moles are common across many parts of the United States.
Geographical Distribution Across the US
Moles are widely distributed throughout the United States, though their presence is not uniform. They are particularly prevalent across the eastern half of the country, extending westward into the Great Plains. These areas offer the soil conditions and food sources moles prefer for their tunneling activities.
The Pacific Northwest also supports a significant mole population due to its moist, temperate climate. Moles are sparser or absent in extremely arid regions, high mountainous areas, and the southernmost parts of Florida. Their distribution is dictated by environmental factors that support their specialized lifestyle.
Common Mole Species and Their Regional Homes
Several distinct mole species inhabit different regions of the United States. The Eastern mole ( Scalopus aquaticus) is the most widespread, inhabiting much of the eastern and central U.S., from the Atlantic coast westward to parts of Kansas and Texas. This species is found in woodlands, grasslands, and cultivated areas. The Star-nosed mole (Condylura cristata) is recognized by its unique, star-like nasal appendage and prefers wetlands and moist soils. Its range extends across the northeastern U.S., reaching parts of the Great Lakes region and into southeastern Canada, often near ponds, streams, and swamps. On the West Coast, Townsend’s mole (Scapanus townsendii) is the largest North American mole, found in the Pacific Northwest from British Columbia through western Washington and Oregon, extending into northern California. The Broad-footed mole (Scapanus latimanus) is another Western species, occupying California and parts of southern Oregon. The Hairy-tailed mole (Parascalops breweri) is smaller and less common than the Eastern mole, with a range concentrated in the northeastern U.S. It is found in forested areas from southern Canada down through the Appalachian Mountains.
Understanding Mole Habitats: Beyond Geography
While geographical location determines which mole species might be present, specific environmental conditions within those regions dictate where moles establish their homes. Moles seek loose, moist, and well-drained soils that are easy to tunnel through. Ideal soil types include sandy loams and silty loams, which allow for efficient excavation and stability of their intricate tunnel networks. The availability of food is a primary factor in habitat selection; moles are insectivores, with their diet consisting mainly of earthworms, grubs, and other soil-dwelling invertebrates. Areas rich in these food sources, such as lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields, often support mole populations. Dense vegetation cover can also provide moles with protection and a stable environment for their underground activities.