Talpa caeca (Blind Mole)

Talpa caeca, commonly known as the blind mole, is a small, burrowing mammal found primarily in Eastern Europe and parts of Asia. It has compact bodies, velvety fur, and, as its name suggests, underdeveloped eyes, making it virtually blind. Instead of sight, these moles rely on their sensitive whiskers and sense of touch to navigate underground. Their diet mainly consists of earthworms and other invertebrates, which they locate using their keen sense of smell. Blind moles play a crucial role in soil aeration and nutrient cycling, contributing to the health of their ecosystems.