How to Identify Moles in Yard

Moles in yards are big problems, tearing up the soil and leaving raised tunnels, dying plants, and piles of soil in their wake. Not only that, but their burrows may even attract other pests, compounding the problem! While they’re not a threat to humans, their presence can lead to all sorts of damage. Moles are rarely seen above ground. So, how can you be sure you have a mole problem in your yard?

The Two Most Common Signs of Moles in a Yard:

Raised Mole Tunnels

Moles are expert diggers. When you have moles in your yard, you may notice raised ridges or mounds on your lawn—called molehills—that disrupt its otherwise smooth surface. This happens when they dig, using their powerful front paws to burrow under the surface and search for food.

These tunnels can range from 6 to 12 inches deep for feeding tunnels and up to 2 feet deep for nesting tunnels. This extensive network of tunnels often leads to small mounds of dirt, raised ridges across your lawn, and ground that feels unstable beneath your feet.

Lawn Damage from Moles

Another sign of having moles in your yard is damaged plants and uprooted grass because moles love vegetated areas where the soil is looser. As they burrow, moles blaze through underground root systems, cutting off water and nutrient supplies and causing the plants to wither and die. Their soil-loosening efforts also make it tougher for grass and plants to establish strong root systems.

On top of that, mole tunnels can attract other pests, such as voles and insects, to move in and cause further damage.

How Are Mole Problems in the Yard Solved?

So, you’ve seen the signs of moles. So, how do you get rid of moles in your yard? In this situation, you have a few options. These methods span from mole removal methods to exclusion methods and lawn repair. It’s important to remember that while these methods may seem DIY-friendly, they’re best left to professionals with experience in effectively and humanely removing unwelcome pest infestations.

Removal Methods

The fastest and most effective way to remove moles from your yard is through mole trapping. Critter Control uses the most efficient and humane method of trapping the moles available.

In addition to trapping and removal, repellents and deterrents can be effective items that stop moles in yards. For example, castor oil-based mole repellents can make the soil unpleasant for moles, encouraging them to move elsewhere. Sound and vibrant deterrents, devices that emit sonic pulses, can also help drive moles away.

Exclusion Methods

Once the moles have been removed, it’s important to implement preventive measures to keep them from coming back. Exclusion methods may include:

• Sealing burrow entrances: Packing tunnels with compacted soil or gravel can make it harder for moles to return.
• Installing barriers: Subsurface fencing composed of a durable material like hardware cloth or mesh can bar moles from burrowing their way back into your yard.
• Soil modification: Earthworms and grubs are primary food sources for moles. Reducing excess moisture and improving soil drainage can make your lawn less attractive to them, which, in turn, can make it less attractive to moles. If moles suddenly appear in your yard, it’s likely due to an increase in food availability or soil moisture, although it may also stem from seasonal changes that drive them to new areas.

Repair Damage

At Critter Control, we don’t just remove moles—we also help restore your yard to its original condition. This is a must-do step in maintaining a healthy and attractive lawn. We can help by:

• Filling and leveling tunnels: We compact the soil to eliminate unsightly ridged edges and restore even ground.
• Reseeding grass: We apply grass seed in damaged areas to promote growth.
• Soil aeration and treatment: We implement methods to improve soil quality, such as soil aeration, to help plants recover from the disruption.
• Pest control measures: If any other pests have moved into the recently vacated mole tunnels, we will take care of those, too.

These repair strategies are designed to not only improve the aesthetics of your yard but also to help prevent future mole infestations by eliminating ideal burrowing conditions.

Contact Critter Control Today

Raised mole tunnels are not only unsightly, but they can also cause major damage to homes. Call Critter Control today at 1 (800) 274-8837 if you suspect you have moles in your yard.