Why do moles build molehills?
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Moles build molehills as a byproduct of their extensive underground excavation. When these mammals construct complex tunnel systemsâwhich include galleries for nesting and food storageâthey must remove the excess soil they have displaced.
To do this, a mole braces its body within the tunnel to shear soil from the tunnel face using its powerful forelimbs. It then turns around and uses its forefeet to push the loose earth through the tunnel and onto the surface, creating the characteristic mound known as a molehill.1