Atlas of Habitats

group

0.0002 m³

at 0 m

48.2ºN

[mellow] hill

earth

digging

rough

mammals

[mellow] hill

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Introduction

Austria
Prater Park
48,2059° N, 16,40148° E
16/06/2024, 2:23 pm

Moles are small, burrowing mammals known for their specialized digging behavior and subterranean lifestyle. They spend most of their lives underground, where they dig extensive tunnel systems to find food, primarily earthworms and insects. Moles are equipped with large, spade-like forelimbs, which allow them to effectively dig through soil. The mole’s ability to thrive underground is dependent on its unique habitat and how it adapts to life below the surface.

Micro Climate

Underground tunnels maintain relatively stable temperatures compared to those at the surface. The deeper tunnels are cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This natural insulation is crucial for their survival, especially during the cold winters and hot summers. Although moles live underground, their tunnel systems are designed to allow for adequate air circulation. The structure of both their surface and deeper tunnels enables airflow, helping to maintain a breathable environment.

Material

The primary material that moles encounter in their habitat is soil, whose texture and composition are crucial to the animals’ ability to dig and create stable tunnels. Moles prefer soft, moist and loamy soils, which are easier to dig through and provide better support for their tunnel systems. The roots of trees and plants are also important materials, as they add stability to the tunnel walls, preventing collapses. Moles will sometimes line their nests or chambers with softer materials like grass or leaves for added comfort and insulation.

Location

The Prater provides an ideal natural habitat for moles. The park is known for its vast open spaces, forests, and fields, and is home to over 2,600 trees spread throughout the area. The diverse landscape includes meadows, wooded areas, and gardens, all of which create a rich environment for moles to thrive in. The park's well-maintained soil, abundant vegetation, and access to food sources, such as insects and earthworms, offer moles the perfect conditions for digging and establishing their underground tunnels.

Construction

The construction of the tunnel system is an ongoing process. Moles use their powerful front paws, equipped with sharp claws, to dig through the soil. The tunnel system consists of two main types: surface tunnels and permanent tunnels. Surface tunnels are shallow and just below the ground, visible from above as raised ridges. Moles create these tunnels while foraging for food, especially earthworms and insects. Deeper tunnels are more permanent, used for nesting and shelter, and are located 15 to 30 centimeters below the surface.