Even though moles and voles may sound like a fun comedy duo, if you’re a Georgia homeowner that takes pride in your lawn and garden, moles and voles are no laughing matter. And while their cute rhyming names may make them sound like twins of the animal kingdom, they’re really quite different – aside from the fact that each can wreak havoc in your yard, albeit in different ways.

Moles

Like their family member, the shrew, moles are insectivores that feed on grubs, worms, beetles, various insects, and larvae. Generally 6-8 inches in length and 3-6 ounces in weight, moles have pointed snouts and large, seemingly disproportionate front feet that feature large claws that are perfect for digging. Because they dig in order to feed, their constant tunneling creates pronounced, visible ridges in the soil, in addition to little mounds of dirt that pile up on the surface. It’s this maze of tunnels and holes that can do damage to your lawns and gardens by not only displacing grasses and their root systems, but also posing a safety hazard when their burrows wash out after rains. 

Voles

Commonly referred to as mice or field mice, voles are rodents that are approximately 3 inches in length and weigh no more than a couple ounces. Typically found in the underbrush of tall grasses, orchards, and lightly-grazed pastures, voles like the cover and protection from predators that the taller grasses provide. Unlike moles, voles aren’t voracious diggers, but contrary to their tiny size, they can do great damage to lawns and gardens by feeding on grass, grass roots, flower roots, bulbs, seeds, and other vegetation. Voles even feed on the bark and roots of smaller trees, which can kill young saplings.

Prevention

When it comes to preventing and controlling mole and vole damage in your lawns and gardens, there is no single answer for the homeowner who likes to go the DIY route. Sure, you could make it more difficult for moles to feed by treating your lawn with insect and grub control and managing your lawn height to make life more difficult for voles, especially around ornamental gardens, but that alone won’t do it. While store-bought repellents might help in specific areas, mole and vole patterns are so random and wide-ranging that they’re difficult to target; and most repellents require frequent reapplication, too.

Help Is on the Way

Because nobody has the time or money to invest in a combination of efforts that might only partially solve the problem, it’s best to trust a professional in pest control and wildlife removal services. Wild Trappers is North Georgia’s one-stop solution to prevent moles, voles, and other nuisance wildlife from becoming a problem in and around your home or business. Contact one of our licensed and trained technicians for a FREE inspection and estimate.

No matter the size or scope of your pest or wildlife problem, Wild Trappers is your one-size-fits-all solution!