The presence of moles in a yard, signaled by raised ridges and conical soil mounds, can quickly ruin the appearance of a well-maintained lawn. Moles are insectivores whose constant subsurface tunneling, driven by a search for earthworms and grubs, damages turf and plant roots. Homeowners often seek swift and definitive solutions, and the most reliable methods for controlling these subterranean pests involve lethal action through targeted trapping or chemical application.
Locating and Confirming Active Tunnels
Successful mole control begins with accurately identifying active tunnels, as moles frequently abandon old runways. Mole activity is distinct from that of voles; mole tunnels create visibly raised ridges or volcano-shaped mounds of loose soil, whereas voles typically create open, dime-sized entrance holes. Moles construct two main types of tunnels: shallow feeding tunnels (raised ridges just beneath the surface) and deeper, more permanent main runways.
Trapping or baiting efforts should focus exclusively on the main runways, which moles use repeatedly. To confirm a tunnel’s activity, flatten a small section of the raised ridge with a foot or probing tool. If the mole is actively using that runway, it will typically repair the collapsed section by pushing the soil back up within 12 to 24 hours. This repaired tunnel confirms an active path, providing the ideal location for applying a lethal control method.
Using Mechanical Traps Effectively
Mechanical trapping is the most dependable method for mole removal, offering a swift and contained solution. Effective mole traps are designed to be placed directly into an active main runway, ensuring the mole encounters the device as it travels or attempts to repair the tunnel. The three primary types available are the harpoon, the scissor, and the choker loop traps.
The harpoon trap features spikes driven down into the runway when triggered by the mole pushing up on a pressure plate. Scissor traps use two spring-loaded jaws that close to crush the mole as it passes through. Choker loop traps, also known as body-grip traps, use wire loops that constrict around the mole’s body when the trigger is set off.
Regardless of the type used, proper placement is critical for success. After locating an active runway, a small section of the tunnel must be cleared to allow the trap’s mechanism to be set directly over or within the path. Ensure the trap is stable and pack the surrounding soil tightly to prevent light from entering the tunnel, which can cause the mole to detour. Traps should be checked daily. If a trap remains untriggered after two to three days, move it to a new, confirmed active location.
Employing Toxic Baits and Fumigants
Chemical methods utilize toxic baits or fumigants introduced directly into the tunnel system. The most advanced toxic baits are formulated to mimic the mole’s natural diet of earthworms and grubs, overcoming the mole’s preference for live food over traditional grain-based poisons. These synthetic worm or grub-shaped baits often contain a neurotoxin like bromethalin, leading to death, typically within 24 to 36 hours of a single feeding.
Another chemical option is the use of fumigants, such as gas cartridges or smoke bombs, which are ignited and placed into the main runway to release toxic carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide gas. For fumigants to be effective, all known exit points and surface openings must be tightly sealed with soil to prevent the gases from escaping.
However, the efficacy of fumigants can be limited, as moles can quickly plug off sections of their burrow system or the gases may escape through the extensive network of shallow tunnels, particularly in dry or porous soil. The risk of secondary poisoning to pets or non-target wildlife is a serious concern when using any toxic bait, making careful, subterranean application and immediate cleanup necessary.
Safe Handling and Post-Removal Steps
Safety is a primary consideration when handling mechanical traps and chemical products. When placing traps or baits, wear gloves to prevent transferring human scent to the devices, which can deter the mole. Gloves also protect the user from any potential residue when handling toxic baits or fumigants.
Once a mole is killed by a trap or found deceased after baiting, the carcass must be handled and disposed of safely. Use gloves when retrieving the animal to avoid direct contact and potential pathogen exposure. The deceased mole should be placed in a sealed plastic bag and disposed of according to local regulations, or buried at least two to three feet deep away from water sources. If toxic baits were used, prompt removal is important to minimize the risk of secondary poisoning to domestic pets or scavenging wildlife.