Hairy-Tailed Mole

Parascalops breweri

The hairy-tailed mole is a species that occurs commonly in Quebec and Ontario, reaching as far west as Sault Ste-Marie. This is an average-sized mole (approximately 15 cm long), with a characteristically short hairy tail. It has extremely large forefeet with long, flattened nails. Its hind feet are small and inconspicuous when compared to its forelimbs. The hairy-tailed mole feeds primarily on insects and worms. Studies of tooth wear indicate that these moles can reach a ripe old age of 4 years. When compared to related insectivores the hairy-tailed mole is actually extremely long-lived.

Distribution of Hairy-Tailed Mole in Canada