Moles are small mammals that live underground in woodlands, grasslands, and lawns. In Missouri, only one species, the eastern mole (Scalopus aquaticus), is found. The large paddle-like forefeet and prominent toenails are the mole’s most distinguishing features, differentiating it from similar- looking mammals like shrews and meadow mice. They actively feed on insects, snails, spiders, and small vertebrates-- day and night at all times of the year. Earthworms and larva of Japanese beetles (white grubs) are their favorite foods. Moles in the natural environment cause minor damage as they maintain balance in the food chain. They are valuable to soil health and the environment because their tunneling activity permits air and moisture to penetrate deeper soil layers. Further, about 85% of its diet consists of animal foods, including crop pests such as cutworms and Japanese beetle larvae.