Star-Nosed Mole
Have you ever heard of the star nosed mole? This animal is not known very well, but is extremely interesting.
The star nosed mole is a very interesting mammal. The looks of this animal themselves are unique. The nose of this mole is hairless, with 22 tentacles ranging in length from 1 to 4 mm. Bilaterally symmetrical, the nose is definitely the mole’s most striking feature. It is small, like any mole, about 6 to 8 inches long (175-205mm) and 1-3oz (35-75g).
The star nosed mole is native to eastern North America. Their range extends from the Atlantic shore down to Georgia, Ohio, Virginia, North Dakota, spreading to Newfoundland and Quebec. Their habitat includes forests, lakes and ponds, streams and rivers, and marshes, swamps, and bogs.
The star nosed mole (Condylura cristata) breeds once per year, although females may breed again if their first litter is unsuccessful. They breed from mid-March to April, with an average brood of two to five young. The gestation period is 45 days; the time to weaning is 30 days, and the eyes, ears, and star become fully functional around two weeks. At ten months the moles are considered mature and begin mating.
It is hard to say the exact lifespan of the star nosed mole in the wild, but it is estimated to be 3-4 years. In captivity, two years is the average span.
Image via Wikipedia
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4 Responses to “Star-Nosed Mole”
On February 28, 2009 at 9:08 am
strange animal.. this is the first time I heard of such creature.. thanks for sharing.
On March 8, 2009 at 6:11 am
Interesting topic. Never heard of it before. See I am learning.
Hope to see you on page soon
On March 13, 2009 at 4:55 am
Never heard of it myself interesting, a good factual piece.
On April 24, 2009 at 7:45 am
Great article disgusting picture!!!
They are kinda of ugly creatures.
You have been reviewed by Victoria Wright writers critic.
You recieved 4 stars.
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