The presence of moles in a lawn or garden is often signaled by raised ridges of soil and conical mounds, which are the visible results of their extensive subterranean tunneling. Moles are insectivores whose primary diet consists of earthworms and insect larvae, and they dig constantly in search of food, inadvertently damaging plant roots and creating unsightly surface runs. Trapping is widely regarded as the most consistently effective strategy for immediately removing moles from a property. Success depends entirely on accurate placement and the correct installation of the mechanical device.
Locating the Best Placement for Traps
Effective mole trapping begins with identifying active tunnel systems. Moles create two main types of runs: shallow, convoluted feeding tunnels, which are often used only once, and deeper tunnels that function as main runways. These main runways connect feeding areas and sleeping chambers, making them the most reliable locations for trap placement.
To find these high-traffic tunnels, a section of a surface run should be deliberately collapsed using the “step-down” method. If the mole is active, it will repair the collapsed section within 12 to 24 hours. Main runways are frequently found running in straight lines, often alongside solid structures like driveways, fences, or foundation borders.
Traps must be concentrated in runways that show consistent repair. A tunnel that remains collapsed after a full day indicates an abandoned run and is unproductive for trapping. Identifying active tunnels maximizes the efficacy of the trapping effort.
Understanding Common Mechanical Traps
Homeowners commonly utilize three types of lethal mechanical traps designed to intercept the mole as it travels through its tunnel.
Harpoon Traps
The Harpoon trap, sometimes called a spear or plunger trap, straddles the tunnel from above the ground. It is activated when the mole pushes up the trigger pan while reopening the collapsed tunnel section. This action causes sharp tines or spears to drive downward into the soil.
Scissor-Jaw Traps
The Scissor-Jaw trap, also known as a pincer trap, features two metal loops that close rapidly in a scissor-like motion. This trap is placed directly into a prepared section of the mole tunnel. It is triggered by the mole’s movement against an internal trip wire or pan and is effective in both loose and firmer soil types.
Choker Loop Traps
The Choker Loop trap, or wire loop trap, uses spring tension to quickly tighten a wire loop around the mole’s body. This design is inserted directly into the tunnel and is triggered when the mole pushes against a soil pan or a small plate. Unlike the Harpoon trap, these traps are placed directly in the mole’s path and employ a transverse closure mechanism.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting the Trap
Before handling any mechanical trap, wear gloves for safety. Once an active runway is identified, use a trowel to dig a small, neat trench across the tunnel, creating an opening large enough for the chosen trap type. The goal is to expose the tunnel without significantly widening or distorting the runway.
After digging the trench, gently clear the tunnel ends of loose soil or debris to ensure a clear path for the mole and prevent misfiring. The trap must then be aligned precisely with the tunnel direction, ensuring the trigger mechanism sits directly in the mole’s path. For above-ground traps, push the frame down firmly to confirm the tines can fully penetrate the soil without hitting obstacles.
The trigger mechanism is carefully set according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It is paramount that the trap is secured into the ground, either through built-in anchors or by compacting the surrounding soil, to prevent movement when triggered. Securing the trap prevents injury without lethal effect, which could make the mole trap-shy.
Finally, the exposed area around the trap must be covered completely to block out light and air drafts. Moles are highly sensitive to these environmental changes and will instinctively avoid any exposed run. Covering the trap with loose soil, sod, or a bucket mimics the natural environment and greatly increases the likelihood that the mole will attempt to repair the run and trigger the device.
Handling and Ongoing Monitoring
Once a trap is set, monitor it frequently, ideally twice daily, to check for a catch or misfire. Regular checks ensure any captured mole is quickly removed. If a trap has sprung but no mole is caught, inspect the device for proper alignment and reset it, or move it to a new section of the active tunnel.
If a mole is successfully trapped, carefully disengage the device and remove the mole, following local regulations for disposal. Relocation is generally not viable, as many jurisdictions require lethal trapping, and relocated moles often return. Continue trapping efforts as long as new signs of tunneling appear, since multiple moles may inhabit the yard.
If a trap remains untouched for two or three days, move it to a different active tunnel showing recent repair. Trapping relies on persistence and accurate interpretation of the mole’s activity. Adjusting placement based on monitoring results ensures complete removal of the pest.