Moles and gophers are two small rodents that often cause confusion. While they may look similar and cause similar damage to lawns and gardens, they are two different species of animals. To help determine the difference between the two, it is important to understand their physical characteristics, behaviors, and habitats.
Physical Characteristics
Moles are small, burrowing mammals that range from 5 to 8 inches long and weigh between 2 and 5 ounces. They have brownish-black fur, short legs, and long, narrow snouts. The front paws of moles have large, curved claws for digging.
Gophers, on the other hand, are larger than moles and can grow up to 14 inches long and weigh up to 14 ounces. They have brownish-gray fur, stocky bodies, and short tails. Their front teeth are large and protrude from the sides of their heads.
Behavior
Moles are solitary animals that live and feed underground. They consume insects, earthworms, and grubs. They create a network of tunnels and dens that connect to their food sources.
Gophers, on the other hand, live in colonies and forage for food above ground. They have large front teeth that are used for digging and foraging for roots and other plants. They also consume insects and grubs.
Habitat
Moles are found throughout the United States, from the northern parts of Canada to the southernmost parts of Mexico. They prefer moist soil and can often be found in gardens and lawns.
Gophers also live throughout the United States and parts of Canada and Mexico. They prefer dry soil and can often be found in meadows and fields.
Conclusion
In conclusion, moles and gophers may look similar and cause similar damage, but they are two different species of animals. Moles are smaller and feed underground, while gophers are larger and feed above ground. Moles inhabit gardens and lawns, while gophers inhabit meadows and fields. By understanding the physical characteristics, behaviors, and habitats of moles and gophers, it is easier to tell the difference between the two.
Mole
A mole is a relatively small mammal that belongs to the family Talpidae, which includes moles, shrews, and desmans. Moles have a cylindrical body, velvety fur, and small eyes and ears. They are excellent diggers and have powerful forelimbs equipped with long claws that help them dig through soil and other materials. Moles typically feed on earthworms, insects, and other small invertebrates. They live primarily in underground burrows, where they are well-protected from predators.
Moles have several unique features that set them apart from other mammals. For example, moles have a special set of bones in their forelimbs that allow them to dig quickly and efficiently. They also have a distinctive set of incisors that are specially adapted for biting and crushing the hard shells of earthworms and other invertebrates. In addition, moles have a heightened sense of touch due to special pressure-sensitive receptors located in their snouts.
Gopher
A gopher is a small mammal from the family Geomyidae. The most common species of gopher is the pocket gopher, which is found throughout North and Central America. Gophers have a distinctive, cylindrical body and short legs that allow them to move quickly through their underground burrows. They are well-suited for a subterranean lifestyle; they have powerful claws on their front feet, which they use to dig tunnels, and they have fur-lined cheek pouches that allow them to carry food and nesting material with them.
Unlike moles, gophers do not feed on earthworms and other small invertebrates. Instead, they primarily feed on plant material, such as roots, bulbs, and tubers. They have large incisors, which they use to clip off pieces of vegetation and carry them back to their burrows. Gophers also have large cheek pouches that allow them to store food for later consumption.
Difference Between Mole and Gopher
Moles and gophers are both small mammals that live in underground burrows, so it can be difficult to tell them apart. However, there are several key differences between the two species.
Firstly, moles feed primarily on earthworms and other small invertebrates, while gophers feed on plant material such as roots, bulbs, and tubers. This is reflected in the animals’ adaptations; moles have powerful forelimbs equipped with long claws that they use to dig through soil, while gophers have large incisors and fur-lined cheek pouches that allow them to clip off and carry pieces of vegetation.
Secondly, the two species have different sets of incisors; moles have a distinctive set of incisors that are specially adapted for biting and crushing the hard shells of earthworms, while gophers have larger incisors that are used to clip off pieces of vegetation.
Finally, moles have a heightened sense of touch due to special pressure-sensitive receptors located in their snouts, while gophers do not. This gives moles an advantage when it comes to locating food underground.