Imagine this – you open your back door to enjoy some time outdoors and discover your beautiful lawn crisscrossed by a web of mole tunnels and unsightly mounds. Your lawn is an extension of your home – which is one of your largest investments. We can help you take back your lawn from pesky moles, but first it’s important for you to understand a little about these interesting and unique pests.
What are Moles?
Moles are ground-dwelling carnivores, meaning they bore and live underground and prefer to eat insects instead of your landscaping or garden plants. Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean they don’t destroy your lawn or garden. Their underground tunnels not only do just that, but they also create an easy access path to your plants for other rodents.
A large presence of moles or similar pests (ex: voles) may be a sign of trouble. When present in large numbers, this may indicate that all is not well with the soil life of your lawn. This is because moles are usually found where soil is very rich in organic matter. Their presence in unusually high numbers may be due to a high population of soil pests.
Moles typically measure approximately 7” in length and weigh in at only about 4 ounces
How do I identify moles in my yard or garden?
Moles have a few distinguishing characteristics that make identifying them pretty easy. Their most distinguishing characteristic is their hairless, pointed snout. These unique mammals have tiny eyes, which along with their ear canals are concealed by fur, and they do have any external ears! Their forefeet are quite large, their toes are webbed, and their bodies are shaped like Idaho potatoes.
Moles are somewhat small in size, typically measuring approximately 7 inches in length and weighing in at only about 4 ounces. These critters may be relatively small in size but they sure are mighty, and are able to cause pretty significant damage to your property.
What type of damage do Moles cause?
- Moles usually feed on insect pests and soil organisms including the beneficial earthworms. Why does this matter? As the earthworm populations increase, they pull more residue into their burrows. This helps mix organic matter into the soil which then improves soil structure, aeration, and water infiltration. Burrowing also enhances plant root penetration which leads to a more beautiful lawn and garden for you. When moles are present, they consume these beneficial organisms putting your lawn and garden at high risk for deterioration.
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Mole hills resemble raised volcano-shaped swellings.
Moles dig deep! Their tunnels are usually at least 10 inches underground and can damage grass, flower beds & tear up tree roots. To minimize mole damage, inspect your soil and lawn regularly for their tunnels. Not sure what a tunnel looks like? Imagine a raised volcano-shaped swelling… and check out the photo to the right.
- Moles’ burrowing habits contribute to the freeze-thaw cycle under foundations, slabs and sidewalks. What does this mean for you? Their tunnels allow water to accumulate which cause cracks to begin. Cracks within your home’s foundation are a very costly repair.
What can I do to try and prevent moles?
- First, make your yard undesirable to them – The number one reason moles invade your yard is in search for food. With their primary source being earthworms and lawn insects, do your best to limit the presence of these organisms in your yard. One way to help limit the moles’ food supply is to use products labeled to control ants, mole crickets, grubs, and other lawn insects.
- Second, don’t water your yard too much – Like earthworms, moles prefer soft, damp earth. Avoid over-watering your lawn and keep it on the slightly dry side to limit both mole and earthworm activity. Keep in mind that the majority of lawns only need 1 inch of water per week to stay healthy!
Imperial Pest Controllers can help!
At Imperial Pest Controllers, we know how important maintaining every aspect of one of your largest investments is. We can help you take your yard back from these nuisance critters! Our team is trained and ready to tackle your mole problem. We use non-toxic mole repellent that is sure to keep you and your family safe and your lawn and garden happy and healthy.
