Opening details

De Winton’s mole, whose scientific name is Cryptochromis wintoni, lives on the coasts south of the Sahara, like three other species of golden mole. Their natural habitat has been greatly affected by diamond mining in this region, which is why these animals have not been seen here for such a long time. Three “brothers” of Cryptochromis wintoni once fell into the hands and lenses of scientists in other desert regions, where they dug nests in the sand that immediately collapsed.

Scientists decided to check whether at least one of these species, known for their hiding abilities and leading a secretive lifestyle mostly underground, was preserved here. And suddenly they encountered all four species.

For their study, the researchers used a relatively new method that has recently gained popularity and for which many high-profile studies have already been written. He assumes that Animals’ genetic footprint can be tracked through wool, skin, urine, faeces, mucus, saliva, blood or decaying body particles – all biomaterials remaining in the environment. All this can be obtained from both water and soil.

Scientists collected more than 100 samples from various areas along the west coast of South Africa, where golden moles are most likely to live. They then ran a series of tests to isolate the DNA and see if there were any real traces of these animals. With a big surprise, scientists found the existence of all four species.

Our data conclusively revealed the presence of the elusive Cryptochromis wintoni on the west coast of South Africa. They also suggest that this species may range from Lambert Bay in the south to the Wissagisesfontein area (outside Port Nollot) in the north.
– researchers note.

However, judging by the data obtained, the number of De Winton’s moles is low despite the wide range.