American shrew mole

The American shrew mole (Neurotrichus gibbsii) is the smallest mole species, weighing only 7 to 11 grams and measuring 3 to 4 cm in body length. Unlike more specialized burrowing moles, shrew moles resemble shrews and spend significant time above ground. They have nearly as long tails as their bodies and smaller hands and claws, allowing them to place their palms flat on the ground. These moles forage in shallow tunnels through leaf litter and soft soil, but can also dig deeper burrows up to 30 cm. The American shrew mole is unique among North American moles for being an adept climber and swimmer, and it is the only species in the region to build its nest above ground.12