Grant's golden mole (Eremitalpa granti) is a species of golden mole in the family Chrysochloridae and the sole member of the monotypic genus Eremitalpa. It inhabits the coastal sand dunes of southwestern Africa, occurring along the western coast of South Africa and in the Namib Desert of Namibia.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Mammalia
- Infraclass: Placentalia
- Order: Afrosoricida
- Family: Chrysochloridae
- Genus: Eremitalpa Roberts, 1924 (monotypic)
- Species: E. granti (Broom, 1907)
Two subspecies are recognised: the West Coast dune golden mole (E. g. granti) and the Namib golden mole (E. g. namibensis).
Physical description
Adult individuals measure 7.5–9 cm (3.0–3.5 in) in head‑body length and weigh 15–25 g (0.53–0.88 oz), making them the smallest members of Chrysochloridae. They possess dense, silky fur that is grey in juveniles and becomes sandy coloured in adults. The forelimbs bear three enlarged digging claws each; the tail is not externally visible, auricles are absent, and the eyes are covered by fur. A leathery pad surrounds the mouth, assisting in substrate excavation.
Distribution and habitat
The species occupies dry, sandy desert environments along South Africa’s western coastline and the adjacent Namibian dunes. Its range includes coastal sand‑dune systems where loose substrate precludes permanent burrow construction.
Behaviour and ecology
Unlike many golden moles that build extensive tunnel networks, Grant's golden mole rarely constructs lasting tunnels. Instead, it “swims” through the sand just below or on the surface while foraging. The animal is primarily nocturnal, resting by day in shallow caves beneath vegetation. It is solitary, with individual home ranges averaging approximately 4.6 ha.
Diet
Its diet consists chiefly of termites, supplemented by other invertebrates and occasional reptiles such as skinks.
Conservation status
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the species as Least Concern globally. However, the Endangered Wildlife Trust of South Africa regards the nominate subspecies (E. g. granti) as Vulnerable due to localized threats and habitat pressures.