68 OUTDOOR LIFE IN ENGLAND 



its burrows in a somewhat similar manner, although 

 it generally constructs its nest on the surface of 

 the ground. The feet of both animals are adapted 

 for digging, and the texture and disposition of 

 the fur is not unlike that of the mole, though 

 much shorter. The muzzles of both animals are 

 long and pointed. The incisor teeth of the mole 

 are, however, different to those of the shrew, being 

 of the ordinary shape ; those in the lower jaw 

 project, giving the appearance of being what is 

 termed underhung. Perhaps the most remark- 

 able characteristic of the mole is its extraordinary 

 strength. I am disposed to believe that there 

 is no quadruped in the world more powerful in 

 comparison to its size. Anyone who has ever 

 dissected a mole must have been struck with the 

 immensity of its limbs and muscular develop- 

 ment, and, indeed, this is necessary to enable it 

 to construct its underground chambers and galleries. 

 At times a mole may be observed at work close 

 to the surface, yet ripping up the turf as easily 

 as if it were sand. The formation of the animal 

 is singularly well adapted for living and working 

 underground, and in the dark. When found on 

 the surface, it appears unable to see well in the 

 daylight, although it is able to crawl along at a 

 fair pace. I have repeatedly captured them in 

 the day time, and found them very quick to take 

 advantage of any cover available. They are 

 strange-looking creatures, and their pink feet, 

 or rather, I should say, hands, with the long 



