Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Patient of the Week: Eastern Mole

Photos / BRWC

Do we make mountains out of mole hills… over mole hills?

This Eastern Mole was brought to the Center after a domestic dog attack.

This mole presented in respiratory distress, with fluid draining from his nares. This patient was provided with pain medication and anti-inflammatories and was hand fed quickly after admission.

Most of the time, food is the last thing we consider for a critical patient, however, moles eat over half their body weight in insects per day and can quickly die when their energy supply is too low.

If a domestic animal has had contact with any wild animal (whether it’s been seen in the mouth or not), get it to a licensed rehabilitator ASAP! Crushing injuries are very common in dog attack victims and signs suggest there is significant internal bleeding. Damage is easy to do and is often not visible to the naked eye, as in the case with this patient.

Often seen as “nuisance” animals, moles and other burrowing species are extremely beneficial to our soil and ecosystem health!

Their many tunnels help aerate the soil, their voracious appetite keeps insect populations in check.

They also serve as vital food sources for birds of prey, foxes, snakes, and more.

Looking for an easy way to help native wildlife? Become a monthly BRWC donor! For as little as $5/month, you can provide year-round, sustainable support that helps us fulfill our mission.