why do moles follow humans
The Short AnswerMoles do not intentionally follow humans; they are largely blind and navigate their underground world using smell, touch, and vibrations. Their surface activity is usually driven by the need to find food or expand their territory, which may incidentally bring them near human-occupied areas.
The Deep Dive
Moles are fascinating subterranean mammals, primarily known for their extensive burrowing activities. Their lives unfold beneath our feet, largely unseen. The notion that moles 'follow' humans is a misconception stemming from their occasional appearance on the surface. These animals possess highly specialized adaptations for a life underground. Their eyesight is notoriously poor, with some species having eyes covered by skin or fur, rendering them almost blind. Instead of sight, moles rely on an acute sense of touch, facilitated by sensitive whiskers on their snout and forepaws, and an exceptional sense of smell. They are constantly detecting prey like earthworms, grubs, and insects. Their behavior is driven by instinctual needs: foraging for food and maintaining their complex tunnel systems. When a mole surfaces, it's typically because it's seeking new hunting grounds, expanding its territory, or has been forced to the surface by flooding or soil conditions. Human presence, with its vibrations and disturbances, can sometimes coincide with these natural behaviors, leading to the mistaken impression of them being drawn to us.
Why It Matters
Understanding mole behavior helps us appreciate their ecological role as natural aerators of soil, which benefits plant growth. It also informs humane pest management strategies, moving away from harmful myths and towards practical solutions that respect their habitat. Recognizing that their surface appearances are not about following people allows for more effective garden and lawn care, as well as a greater appreciation for these specialized creatures.
Common Misconceptions
A common myth is that moles are blind and deaf. While their vision is extremely poor, they are not entirely blind; some can detect light and dark. Their hearing is also functional, though not their primary sense for navigation. Another misconception is that moles eat plant roots. In reality, moles are insectivores, feeding on invertebrates. Damage attributed to moles is often caused by voles, which are rodents that do eat plant roots and may use mole tunnels.
Fun Facts
- A mole can dig a tunnel at a rate of about 15 feet per hour.
- Some moles have an extra, star-shaped appendage on their snout with thousands of sensory receptors called Eimer's organs.