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| Distribution |
In NC, essentially restricted to the mountain province, generally above 2,000 feet in elevation. It may well occur in all mountain counties, but it might possibly be absent in a few in the southwestern corner of the state. In 2013, one was seen and photographed well into the Piedmont, in Rockingham County; however, it likely extends into the Piedmont only in the extreme northern and northwestern portions.
A fairly small range in the northeastern states and adjacent southeastern Canada, extending southward only through the Appalachians. |
| Abundance |
Generally common to perhaps locally abundant within its range in the state, especially above about 2,500 feet. |
| Seasonal Occurrence |
Active year-round, but seldom seen at any times, as it tends to remain underground. |
| Habitat |
A wide variety of forested and brushy habitats, including wooded residential areas and other sites similar to that of the Eastern Mole in its range (at lower elevations). Moist soil sites, such as rich wooded slopes, are favored. |
| Behavior |
Very similar to that of the more familiar Eastern Mole. It digs tunnels just below the surface, but they are not as obvious as those of the Eastern Mole, as more are located in wooded areas and less so in lawns. Deeper tunnels are used mainly in winter, and for nesting and for shelter. |
| Comments |
This species is the highland counterpart of the Eastern Mole, though the former species has a hairy tail as opposed to a naked tail in Eastern Mole. It is less easily detected by the public, as it is more typical of montane forests and is less at home in lawns and other areas near man. |
| Origin |
Native |
| NC List |
Official |
 State Rank |
S4 |
| State Status |
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| Global Rank |
G5 |
| Federal Status |
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