Talpids

Talpids are a family of small, predominantly fossorial mammals in the order Eulipotyphla. They include true moles, desmans, and shrew-moles, and are adapted to life largely underground. Their range covers Eurasia and North America, occupying forests, grasslands, and wetlands where soil is suitable for digging.

Morphology and adaptations: Talpids typically have cylindrical bodies, short limbs, and powerful forelimbs with broad, spade-like claws for digging. Fur lies in any direction, enabling smooth movement through soil; eyes are small or hidden; snouts are elongated and highly tactile.

Taxonomy and diversity: The family is divided into subfamilies such as Talpinae (true moles), Desmaninae (desmans), and Uropsilinae (shrew-moles). Genera include Talpa, Neurotrichus, Scalopus, Scapanus, Condylura, Desmana, Galemys, and Uropsilus.

Ecology and behavior: Most talpids are insectivorous, feeding on earthworms, larvae, and other invertebrates found underground. They are primarily fossorial, living in networks of tunnels; desmans are semi-aquatic and forage in streams and rivers.

Senses and foraging: They rely on tactile senses—whiskers and, in some species, specialized nasal or facial organs—to detect prey in soil. Vision is reduced, reflecting their underground lifestyle.

Reproduction and conservation: Litter sizes are generally small, often 2–6 offspring, with most species breeding annually in spring or early summer. Some talpid species face conservation concerns due to habitat loss, water pollution, and wetland destruction, particularly desmans.