Moles are found in California, though these subterranean mammals often remain out of sight. Their presence is primarily detected through the distinctive signs of their tunneling activities on the surface. While direct sightings are rare, the tell-tale mounds and raised ridges they leave behind are clear indicators of their activity.
Mole Species in California
California is home to several mole species, with the Broad-footed Mole (Scapanus latimanus) being the most common. This species is found in various habitats, including grasslands, pastures, and wooded areas, particularly where soils are moist and rich. Broad-footed moles have broad front feet adapted for digging.
Another notable species is Townsend’s Mole (Scapanus townsendii), the largest mole in North America. It typically inhabits moist lowland areas along the Pacific coast, including northwestern California. The Coast Mole (Scapanus orarius) is also found in forested and open areas with moist soils along the Pacific coast, extending into northwestern California.
Identifying Moles and Their Presence
Identifying moles primarily involves recognizing the specific signs they leave behind. Moles create two main types of surface disturbances: molehills and surface ridges. Molehills are cone-shaped piles of soil, a few inches high, formed when moles push excavated dirt to the surface from deeper tunnels. These mounds can sometimes be confused with gopher mounds, but gopher mounds are usually fan-shaped with a plugged hole on one side, whereas molehills are symmetrical with a central opening.
Surface ridges, also known as feeder tunnels, appear as raised lines across lawns or garden beds. These shallow tunnels are created just beneath the surface as moles forage. They are often irregular and winding. Moles have short, dense fur, pointed snouts, and large, sideways-turned front paws equipped with heavy claws.
Moles’ Natural Habits
Moles are insectivores, meaning their diet primarily consists of insects and other invertebrates found in the soil. Contrary to common misconceptions, moles do not eat plant roots, bulbs, or seeds, though their tunneling can inadvertently damage plant root systems. Moles are highly active year-round and must consume a significant amount of food to maintain their energy for continuous burrowing.
Their elaborate tunnel systems serve multiple purposes. Shallow tunnels are used for foraging, while deeper tunnels provide shelter and nesting sites. Moles are solitary creatures, typically occupying their own tunnel systems.
Dealing with Moles
For property owners experiencing mole activity, several management approaches can be considered. Trapping is an effective method for removing moles. Various types of traps are available and should be set in active, main tunnels where moles regularly travel. Identifying active tunnels by flattening a section and observing if it is re-raised within 24-48 hours can increase trapping success.
Deterrents, such as castor oil-based repellents, can encourage moles to move, though their effectiveness varies. Sonic devices, which emit vibrations, are also marketed as deterrents, but scientific evidence supporting their long-term efficacy is limited. Encouraging natural predators, such as owls, coyotes, and weasels, can also help control mole populations. Moles are classified as nongame mammals in California, allowing property owners to control them using legal means if they threaten property.