Iberian Mole

Identification

The Iberian mole is a small, robust mammal belonging to the mole family Talpidae. Adult males average 65 grams (2.3 oz), while females are slightly smaller at 53.5 grams (1.89 oz). Like other moles, this species is highly adapted for an underground lifestyle, though detailed morphological features distinguishing it from closely related species are subtle and primarily involve skull structure. A notable and unusual characteristic is that females are hermaphroditic, possessing both ovarian and testicular tissue, an adaptation shared with other members of its genus.

Range & Habitat

The Iberian mole is endemic to the Iberian Peninsula, found in both Spain and Portugal, with populations concentrated primarily in the northwest. This species thrives in a variety of moist-soil habitats across temperate regions, showing a marked preference for areas rich in earthworms—its primary food source. It is most commonly encountered in meadows, cropland, pastures, and woodlands.

The species' distribution is closely tied to soil conditions. It favours deep, moist soils suitable for digging and tends to avoid areas that are too rocky, sandy, or otherwise compacted. Importantly, it does well in both naturally wet soils and in artificially irrigated croplands and pastures, and is particularly common in regions where traditional agricultural practices are maintained. The mole is considered of least concern by the IUCN, indicating stable populations across its range.

Behaviour & Diet

The Iberian mole is primarily earthworm-eating, with its habitat selection directly reflecting the availability of this prey. The breeding period extends from September to May, with pregnancies occurring from October to April. The gestation period lasts approximately 28 days, and young are typically weaned by May after about 30 days of nursing. Males reach sexual maturity at approximately one year of age.

The reproductive biology of this species is particularly fascinating. Females possess an ovotestis—tissue combining both ovarian and testicular characteristics—with the prominence of testicles relative to ovary tissue varying across the breeding season. Some phenotypically male individuals have been found to possess XX chromosomes rather than the typical XY, making them externally similar to standard males but with notably smaller testicles and internally different testicular structure. These XX males were found to be infertile, representing one of the first documented instances of "sex reversal" in wild mammals.

Best Time & Places to See It

The Iberian mole is primarily nocturnal and subterranean, making direct observation challenging. However, evidence of activity is often visible as molehills and tunnel systems in suitable habitats. The best opportunities to observe signs of this species are in the northwestern Iberian Peninsula, particularly in agricultural regions maintaining traditional farming practices, meadows, and pasture areas with moist, earthworm-rich soils. Spring and autumn, when breeding activity peaks, may offer the best chances of encountering fresh tunnel systems and surface activity.

Photography Tips

Photographing the Iberian mole itself is extremely difficult due to its secretive, underground lifestyle. Instead, wildlife photographers should focus on documenting the habitat and signs of the species' presence—molehills, characteristic tunnel patterns in soft soil, and the earthworm-rich meadows and pastures where they thrive. Macro photography of earthworms and detailed habitat shots in traditional agricultural landscapes of northwestern Spain and Portugal can effectively convey the ecological niche of this elusive species.