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Of Moles and Molehunters: The Hidden World of Luciano Simonelli

Orson Scott Card

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Beneath the surface of our bustling world, there exists a hidden realm where moles toil tirelessly, creating intricate tunnels that crisscross the landscape. These subterranean creatures, often unseen and unappreciated, play a vital role in maintaining the health of our ecosystems. However, their activities can also come into conflict with human endeavors, leading to a long-standing tradition of molehunting.

OF MOLES and MOLEHUNTERS

by Luciano Simonelli

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	126 KB
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Print length	:	21 pages

In the picturesque countryside of Italy, the art of molehunting has been passed down through generations. One of the most renowned contemporary practitioners of this craft is Luciano Simonelli, a passionate naturalist and master molehunter. In his acclaimed book, 'Of Moles and Molehunters,' Simonelli offers a captivating glimpse into this fascinating world, revealing the secrets of these elusive animals and the techniques employed by those who pursue them.

The Moles: A Keystone Species

Moles are small, burrowing mammals that belong to the order Eulipotyphla. They are characterized by their velvety fur, tiny eyes, and powerful forelimbs adapted for digging. Moles inhabit a wide range of habitats, including forests, meadows, and gardens. Despite their subterranean lifestyle, moles play a vital role in the ecosystem by:

Aeration: Moles create extensive networks of tunnels that aerate the soil, improving drainage and promoting plant growth.
Pest control: Moles feed primarily on insects and other small invertebrates, helping to control their populations and prevent damage to crops.
Nutrient cycling: As moles burrow and feed, they bring organic matter deeper into the soil, enriching it with nutrients.

The Molehunters: Guardians of the Land

For centuries, farmers and landowners have employed molehunters to protect their crops and property from the damaging effects of moles. Molehunting is a specialized skill that requires knowledge of the animal's behavior, as well as patience and determination.

Traditional molehunting techniques include:

Trapping: Moles can be trapped using a variety of devices, such as spring-loaded traps or live traps.
Gassing: Moles can be killed by releasing poisonous gases, such as carbon monoxide or calcium carbide, into their burrows.
Smoking: Moles can be driven out of their burrows by burning sulfur or other pungent substances.

Luciano Simonelli: A Renaissance Man of Molehunting

Luciano Simonelli was born in 1950 in the village of Villa Basilica in Tuscany, Italy. From a young age, he developed a fascination with the natural world and spent countless hours observing the behavior of moles on his family's farm. At the age of 14, he began experimenting with different molehunting techniques, and by the time he was 18, he had become a skilled molehunter.

Simonelli's passion for molehunting extends beyond the practical aspects of pest control. He is also a keen naturalist and photographer, and his work has been featured in numerous exhibitions and publications. Through his art, Simonelli seeks to capture the beauty and complexity of the mole's hidden world.

'Of Moles and Molehunters': A Literary and Artistic Masterpiece

In 2012, Simonelli published his magnum opus, 'Of Moles and Molehunters.' This beautifully illustrated book combines meticulous research with stunning photography to provide a comprehensive overview of the history, techniques, and cultural significance of molehunting.

The book is divided into three main sections:

The Moles: A detailed account of mole biology, behavior, and ecology.
The Molehunters: A history of molehunting practices and the people who have practiced them through the ages.
The Art of Molehunting: A portfolio of Simonelli's stunning photographs and detailed descriptions of his techniques.

Luciano Simonelli's 'Of Moles and Molehunters' is a captivating exploration of a hidden world that few have the privilege to witness. Through his meticulous observations and stunning photography, Simonelli reveals the intricate lives of these subterranean creatures and the ancient traditions of those who hunt them. This book is a testament to the interconnectedness of nature and the enduring bond between humans and the wild.

As we continue to navigate the challenges of the modern world, it is more important than ever to appreciate and protect the delicate balance of our ecosystems. By understanding the vital role that moles play and respecting the traditional practices of molehunters, we can ensure that these hidden creatures and the craft associated with them continue to thrive for generations to come.

OF MOLES and MOLEHUNTERS

by Luciano Simonelli

4 out of 5