Parascalops is a noun that refers to a genus of small mammals belonging to the family Talpidae, commonly known as the hairy-tailed moles. It includes a single species, Parascalops breweri, also known as the Brewer's mole. Parascalops inhabits North America, predominantly in the eastern part of the continent.
These small mammals are known for their distinctive physical characteristics. Parascalops typically has a cylindrical body with short, dense fur that ranges in color from grayish-brown to dark brown. It is characterized by having a hairy tail, which sets it apart from other mole species. They have a reduced external ear, relatively small eyes, and powerful forelimbs with sharp, broad claws used for digging in the soil.
Parascalops is a fossorial animal that spends a significant portion of its life underground. It constructs elaborate tunnel systems beneath the surface, primarily in moist, rich soils found in various habitats such as woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. These tunnels serve for foraging, mating, and providing protection from predators.
The diet of Parascalops mainly consists of insects, earthworms, and other small invertebrates, which it detects and captures using its acute sense of touch. It uses its snout and palpable appendages to explore the soil and search for prey. Parascalops is a solitary creature, with limited social interactions except during the mating season.
Due to its fossorial lifestyle and burrowing habits, Parascalops plays an essential role in soil aeration, nutrient cycling, and influencing plant growth patterns in its ecosystem. However, its populations can be impacted by habitat destruction and fragmentation, as well as changes in soil conditions and water availability.
