talpas

Talpas is a genus of moles in the family Talpidae. These small, burrowing mammals are native to various parts of Europe and Asia. The genus Talpas is characterized by its cylindrical body, short limbs, and velvety fur, which is typically dark brown or black. Their powerful forelimbs are equipped with large, spade-like claws, perfectly adapted for digging extensive underground tunnel systems. These tunnels serve as both shelter and a means of locating their primary food source: invertebrates such as earthworms, insects, and larvae.

The eyes of talpas are small and often covered by fur, reflecting their subterranean lifestyle where vision plays a less critical role. Their sense of smell and touch, particularly through their highly sensitive snout, are far more developed and are crucial for navigating their environment and finding food. They are generally solitary animals, with individuals maintaining their own territories marked by scent. Reproduction typically occurs once a year, with females giving birth to a small litter of young in a specially constructed nest chamber within their burrow. Species within the genus Talpas vary in size, but all share the fundamental adaptations for fossorial life.