How to Get Rid of Moles in Your Yard (and Keep Them Away)
Moles are small, burrowing mammals with velvety fur, tiny eyes, and powerful forelimbs designed for digging. The most common species found in yards include the Eastern and star-nosed mole.
Their relentless tunneling can damage plant roots, ruin soil structure, leading to waterlogged areas in your yard and eventually attracting other pests like insects and rodents, amplifying your pest problem.
Moles feed on insects, grubs, and earthworms, preferring moist, loose soil for easy digging and finding food quickly. They nourish themselves on insects, grubs, and earthworms, favoring damp, soft soil for effortless digging and food retrieval.
Signs of Mole Activity
Tunnels and Mounds
Look for raised ridges (tunnels) and small, cone-shaped mounds of soil (molehills) in your yard.
Plant Damage
Check for wilting plants and damaged roots, indicating mole activity beneath the surface.
Why It’s Important to Get Rid of Moles
Lawn and Garden Damage
Moles can destroy lawns and gardens, making them look unattractive and unhealthy. These elusive creatures not only disrupt the visual appeal of outdoor spaces but also compromise the health of plants and grass, leading to unsightly patches and an overall lackluster appearance.
Secondary Pests
Their tunnels attract other pests like gophers and voles, compounding your pest problems.
Soil Structure Impact
Mole tunnels disrupt soil structure, affecting water drainage and plant health.
Preventing Moles from Entering Your Yard
Soil Maintenance
Proper Lawn Care
Maintaining a healthy lawn through regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing can keep away moles.
Removing Grubs and Insects
Control mole food sources by removing grubs and insects using biopesticides. According to ResearchGate, biopesticides, including microbial and plant-derived types, are increasingly influential in managing insect pests.
Physical Barriers
Installing Fences
Install underground barriers around your yard to prevent mole entry.
Garden Borders
Use raised beds and other physical barriers to protect your garden.
Natural Repellents
Plants and Oils
Certain plants and natural oils repel moles. Try planting marigolds or using castor oil (reccommended).
Homemade Remedies
Create homemade repellents using ingredients like cayenne pepper and garlic.
How to Get Rid of Moles in Your Yard
Non-Lethal Methods
Live Traps
Set live traps to capture and relocate moles humanely.
Repellent Devices
Use ultrasonic and vibrational devices to deter moles from your yard.
Lethal Methods
Mole Traps
Various mole traps, such as scissor and harpoon traps, can capture moles effectively.
Bait and Poison
Use mole baits and poison safely and effectively, following all precautions if necessary.
Professional Help
When to Call an Exterminator
If mole activity persists, it might be time to call a professional.
What to Expect
Professional exterminators offer various mole removal services and methods.
Long-Term Solutions to Keep Moles Away
Ongoing Yard Maintenance
Regular Inspections
Regular yard inspections should be conducted to catch mole activity early.
Seasonal Treatments
Apply seasonal lawn treatments to discourage moles year-round.
Sustainable Landscaping Practices
Mole-Resistant Plants
Incorporate mole-resistant plants into your landscape design.
Healthy Ecosystems
Create a balanced ecosystem to reduce mole problems naturally.
Dealing with Recurring Mole Problems
Advanced Prevention Techniques
Electric Fences
Install electric fences for persistent mole problems.
Soil Amendments
Use soil amendments to make your yard less attractive to moles.
Community Efforts
Neighborhood Coordination
Work with neighbors to implement widespread mole control measures.
Local Resources
Use local pest control resources and services for comprehensive solutions.
Bottomline
Implementing these preventive measures, and using effective mole removal techniques, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any mole issue.
