Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Afrosoricida
- Family
- Chrysochloridae
- Genus
- Cryptochloris
Habitat
This species inhabits coastal dunes and sandy plains in the Namaqualand region of South Africa. It prefers arid, loose soils that allow for burrowing, typically in areas with sparse vegetation. Geographic range is limited to western South Africa, avoiding denser or rocky terrains.
Diet
Van Zyl's golden mole primarily feeds on earthworms, insect larvae, and small invertebrates found underground. It uses its sensitive snout and claws to detect and excavate prey while burrowing. Feeding occurs mainly at night, reflecting its nocturnal habits.
Behavior
Van Zyl's golden mole is solitary and territorial, spending most of its time burrowing underground to avoid predators and extreme surface conditions. It is primarily nocturnal, emerging briefly to forage or relocate burrows. This species exhibits minimal social interaction, with individuals defending their tunnels aggressively.
Conservation Status
Van Zyl's golden mole is classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN, with a declining population trend due to habitat loss from mining and agriculture. Major threats include fragmentation of sandy habitats and predation by introduced species.