Introduction
Moles and voles are common garden pests that can wreak havoc on your yard or garden. Moles are insectivores that burrow underground, leaving raised tunnels and mounds of dirt in their wake. Voles, on the other hand, are herbivores that feed on plant roots and bulbs, causing damage to lawns and gardens. In this article, we will discuss effective methods to get rid of moles and voles and prevent them from causing further damage.
Identifying Moles and Voles
Before implementing any control methods, it is essential to correctly identify whether you are dealing with moles or voles. Here are some key differences between the two pests:
Moles
- Have velvety fur and small eyes.
- Create raised tunnels and mounds of dirt in a winding pattern.
- Feed on insects and earthworms.
Voles
- Resemble small mice with beady eyes and small rounded ears.
- Create surface runways in grass or mulch.
- Feed on plant roots, bulbs, and tubers.
Methods to Get Rid of Moles
1. Physical Barriers
One way to deter moles from entering your yard is by installing physical barriers such as underground fencing made of hardware cloth. Bury the fencing at least 24 inches deep to prevent moles from burrowing underneath.
2. Castor Oil Repellents
Castor oil repellents are a natural and non-toxic way to repel moles from your yard. Mix castor oil with water and dish soap in a spray bottle and apply it to the affected areas. The strong scent of castor oil is known to drive moles away.
3. Vibrating Solar Stake Repellers
Solar stake repellers emit sonic vibrations that deter moles from tunneling in the area. Simply place the stakes in the ground where moles are active, and the vibrations will disrupt their sensory systems, causing them to move elsewhere.
4. Flooding Tunnels
If you have identified active mole tunnels in your yard, you can use a garden hose to flood the tunnels with water. This method forces the moles out of their burrows and helps to locate their main feeding runs for further control measures.
5. Traps
Trapping is an effective way to get rid of moles that are causing damage to your yard. There are various types of traps available, including harpoon traps, scissor traps, and choker traps. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setting up and placing the traps in active mole tunnels.
Methods to Get Rid of Voles
1. Exclusion Fencing
To keep voles out of your garden, install exclusion fencing made of hardware cloth or chicken wire. Bury the fencing at least 6 inches deep to prevent voles from burrowing underneath.
2. Habitat Modification
Reduce the habitat for voles by removing dense vegetation, mulch, and debris around your garden. Keep lawns mowed short and create a buffer zone of gravel or stone between your garden beds and surrounding vegetation.
3. Plant Resistant Species
Consider planting vole-resistant species in your garden to deter voles from feeding on your plants. Some examples include daffodils, alliums, and fritillarias, which voles typically avoid due to their taste or toxicity.
4. Traps
Trapping is an effective way to control vole populations in your yard. Live traps, snap traps, and bucket traps are commonly used for capturing voles. Place traps along vole runways and bait them with peanut butter or apple slices.
5. Repellents
There are several repellents available that can help deter voles from entering your garden. Repellents containing ingredients like capsaicin or predator urine emit odors that voles find unpleasant and will steer them away from your plants.
Preventing Future Infestations
1. Maintain a Tidy Yard: Remove debris, mulch, and tall grass that can provide hiding spots for moles and voles.
2. Monitor Your Garden: Regularly inspect your yard for signs of mole and vole activity, such as raised tunnels, surface runways, and plant damage.
3. Reduce Food Sources: Keep bird feeders elevated and clean up fallen seeds to prevent attracting voles to your yard.
4. Stay Vigilant: Act quickly at the first sign of mole or vole activity to prevent a full-blown infestation.
Conclusion
Moles and voles can be frustrating pests to deal with, but with the right strategies, you can effectively get rid of them and prevent future infestations. By identifying the type of pest you are dealing with, implementing appropriate control methods, and taking preventive measures, you can protect your yard and garden from the damage caused by moles and voles. Remember to stay vigilant and proactive in managing these pests to maintain a healthy and beautiful outdoor space.
