Moles are subterranean mammals known for their exceptional digging abilities, creating complex tunnel systems beneath the soil. While they contribute to soil aeration, their extensive tunneling can lead to noticeable damage in lawns, gardens, and other landscaped areas. Recognizing these signs helps homeowners understand mole activity and plan appropriate responses.
Common Indicators of Mole Presence
One recognizable sign of mole presence is molehills, distinct mounds of soil on your lawn. These mounds are typically conical or volcano-shaped, often with a visible dirt plug in the center. Moles create these by pushing excavated soil upwards from their deeper, permanent tunnels, which can extend 12 to 18 inches below the surface. Their size varies, generally measuring 6 to 12 inches in diameter and 4 to 8 inches in height.
Another clear indicator of mole activity is surface runways or ridges. These appear as raised, meandering lines that crisscross the lawn or garden, just beneath the soil’s surface. Moles construct these shallow tunnels as they search for food, primarily earthworms and soil-dwelling insects. When stepped upon, these raised ridges often feel soft or spongy, and the ground may collapse slightly. These feeding tunnels can be created quickly, sometimes appearing overnight.
Distinguishing Mole Activity from Other Pests
Distinguishing mole activity from other burrowing animals like voles or gophers is important. Moles are insectivores, primarily eating earthworms, grubs, and other soil insects. They typically do not consume plants, though their tunneling can disrupt roots. In contrast, voles are herbivores, feeding on plant roots, stems, bulbs, and tree bark. They create small, open holes (1-2 inches in diameter) and narrow pathways through grass, unlike raised mole tunnels.
Gophers also create mounds, but their appearance differs from molehills. Gopher mounds are typically crescent-shaped or fan-shaped, often with a visible dirt plug off to one side, indicating a sealed tunnel entrance. Unlike moles, gophers are strict herbivores, consuming roots, tubers, and garden vegetables. Gophers also create open holes, which moles generally do not. Understanding these distinctions is important for selecting effective management strategies.
Methods for Confirming Active Tunnels
After identifying potential mole activity, confirming which tunnels are currently in use is the next step. A reliable method involves flattening several molehills or sections of surface runways. This can be done by stepping on the raised soil or gently raking the mounds down. Selecting multiple disturbed areas for this test provides a more comprehensive assessment of the mole’s movements.
After flattening the tunnels, observe these areas over the next 24 to 48 hours. If flattened molehills are rebuilt, or depressed surface runways are raised again, this indicates active mole presence. Moles are constantly maintaining their tunnel systems, especially those used for foraging, so fresh disruptions signal ongoing activity. While pouring water into a tunnel is sometimes suggested, the flattening and observation method is more dependable for confirming active runs.