How to Control Moles and Voles
Moles and Voles are a common lawn and garden pest. In the lawn, their tunneling
activity can create significant and repeated damage. In the garden, tunneling
activity of moles can disturb plant roots. This can be followed by voles
using the tunnels in search of garden goodies.
About Moles:
Moles are small mammals that live their life underground, rarely coming topside.
They eat primarily earthworms, grubs, and insects. They can eat almost their
weight each day. Moles produce a litter of 3-4 babies every spring.
A Big Mole: The "Russian Mole" grows up to 14" from head to the tip
of the tail. Aren't you glad they do not live in your lawn!?
Moles dig a main tunnel in search of food. From the main tunnel, they create
numerous "feeder" tunnels which they use in search of food. Moles actively
dig tunnels in search of food all year. In the winter this activity continues
beneath the snow.
Moles are solitary creatures. They do not live in groups. With a big appetite,
a single mole can create a huge tunnel system.
About Voles:
Voles are similar to field mice. They tend to travel above ground,
leaving a brown trail. These rodents are also opportunists, using mole tunnels
to travel in search of food. As a result, homeowners and gardeners often
mistake them as moles. Their primary diet consists of plants, including your
garden root crops.
How to Control Moles and Voles:
Poison Bait- This usually consists of poisoned grains. Pour the bait
into active tunnels. Moles and voles will hopefully consume it and die. You
will rarely see the dead animal.
Important caution for gardeners- Poisoned bait in the garden can also
get into the soil your crops use. We do not recommend poison baits in the
garden.
Sonic Devices- These devices produce an ultrasonic sound, undetectable
to the human ear. Placed in active tunnel areas, it is effective. Trouble
is, the moles move to your neighbors' yard and garden. Turn the device off,
and they will soon return.
Mouse Traps- Here's a method that's highly effective, inexpensive,
and does not use poisons. Buy an inexpensive mouse trap. Use a bit of peanut
butter for bait. Place it near an active tunnel where a hole to the surface
exists. Place a five gallon bucket or a box over the trap. Check daily. You
will be amazed at how quickly this works.
Poison gas- Here's a labor intensive method. Find an active tunnel.
Block off all exits to feeder tunnels and the end of the tunnel. Poison gas
is then sent through the tunnel. It works if, and only if, you've caught
the mole in the tunnel without a quick escape route.
Bubble Gum- Partially chew a piece or two of bubble gum. Place
it in an active tunnel. The mole will eat it, but can not digest it. It blocks
the intestines and they die. We are not certain if this actually works.
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