The main threats it faces are habitat degradation, either through overgrazing by cattle or the removal of vegetation for firewood, and urbanization.

[2] Marley's golden mole has a compact, streamlined body, a wedge-shaped head, pointed muzzle and sleek, moisture repellent fur.

The hind limbs retain all five toes which are webbed to allow for efficient backward shoveling of soil that has been loosened by the forelimbs.

[4] When burrowing and foraging near the surface, this mole creates raised ridges of soil that are visible above ground.

Golden moles have a low metabolic rate and are able to enter into a state of torpor in response to cold temperatures.