Thought to have vanished for nearly a century, the De Winton’s golden mole (Cryptochloris wintoni) makes a remarkable return, breaking its silence since its last sighting in 1936. Thanks to scientific perseverance and a canine ally, this elusive creature has reappeared along South Africa’s west coast, astonishing conservationists and scientists alike.
Heralded by Jean Pierre Le Roux from South Africa’s Department of Environmental Affairs, this groundbreaking rediscovery sheds light on a creature that thrived underground, evading human detection for decades. Their unique method of traversing the sandy terrain, coated in special oils, allowed them to move surreptitiously, leaving minimal trace behind.
MYSTERIES OF SURVIVAL
De Winton’s golden moles, adapted to subterranean life, crafted intricate tunnels below the surface, deftly navigating through sand while maintaining a cool existence amidst desert heat. Their nocturnal foraging patterns and water-independent lifestyle further shrouded them in mystery, complicating the quest for their whereabouts.
SCIENTIFIC SLEUTHING: UNCOVERING GENETIC CLUES
Utilizing innovative techniques, scientists turned to environmental DNA analysis, honing skills to extract and sequence genetic traces. Collaborating with a trained sniffer dog, Jessie, researchers employed an elimination process, eventually pinpointing elusive mole tracks that piqued the canine’s interest, leading to crucial soil samples.
DNA REVELATIONS AND CONSERVATION IMPLICATIONS
Over 100 soil samples yielded invaluable genetic information, unveiling a population of De Winton’s golden moles spanning from Lambert’s Bay to Port Nolloth. Furthermore, the discovery also hinted at the presence of another endangered species, Van Zyl’s golden mole (Cryptochloris zyli), enriching our understanding of these elusive creatures’ habitats.
BEYOND MOLEHOOD: UNIQUE ADAPTATIONS AND ECOLOGICAL IMPACT
Though not true moles, these creatures share kinship with aardvarks and sea cows, boasting specialized ear bones enabling hearing through sand. Their dietary habits, comprising worms, insects, and occasional small reptiles, contribute to soil health, illustrating their ecological significance.
THREATS AND CONSERVATION CHALLENGES
Despite their resurgence, De Winton’s golden moles face looming threats from industrial, agricultural, and residential development. Protecting these rare creatures demands urgent conservation efforts to safeguard their fragile habitats.
