Star Nosed Mole Condylura cristata

Identification
This mole has a distinctive star shaped nose with sensory tentacles. Its fur is dark and velvety.

Location
Common statewide

Size
1.5 to 2 ounces

Diet
It feeds on worms insects and aquatic invertebrates.

Habitat
It occurs in wet soils and marshy areas.

Activity Period
Year round

Behavior
It is semi aquatic and an excellent swimmer. It is active year round.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in spring.

Population
The population is stable statewide.

History
It has long been widespread in Ohio.

Human Interactions
It rarely interacts with humans.

Facts
It has one of the fastest reaction times of any mammal.

Sources
ODNR academic sources

Insects worms aquatic invertebrates | Wet soils marshes streamsides | Statewide