Notes on Reproduction in the Star-Nosed Mole

Abstract

Few mammals are more distinctive of North America than Condylura cristata cristata (Linnaeus) but its general habits and reproductive history have been little explored; much of the data we have on its mode of life have been gathered by chance. The observations recorded below are fragmentary, but are considered worthy of record since no study of its entire reproductive pattern has been recorded. A few data on the season of reproduction and embryo counts have been recorded by Hamilton (1931). In the past 25 years, additional material has become available that adds to our meager knowledge of the reproductive pattern in this species. Our data are largely the result of routine trapping in an attempt to secure information on the population dynamics of the small mammals of central and western New York. No real effort has been made to collect these moles, except as specific needs for fresh specimens for glandular studies arose (Eadie, 1948 a , b ). The number of fresh specimens inspected by us and our collectors is 145. The reproductive organs of these were grossly examined. Published information on the reproductive cycle of Condylura is included to supplement our own observations. Pairing of the sexes .—It is generally held that the male and female talpid consort only for the purpose of mating, and lead a solitary life at other times. Condylura is often found in small colonies and appears to live a gregarious existence with its own kind. Thus we have taken ten individuals in an area of an acre in several weeks of late winter trapping. Three males were taken in a minnow trap at Willseyville, New York on May 25, 1928. The trap was placed in a pool about two feet deep, below the riffles of a large stream. In several instances a male …