Garden Invaders: Understanding the Differences Between Moles and Voles

Posted on January 16, 2024 by moleminers

Every gardener’s nightmare is to wake up and find their manicured lawn transformed overnight into a network of raised earth ridges, or their tender plants viciously chewed down to the roots. These could be telltale signs of yard moles or voles causing havoc in your beloved garden. But how can you tell whether it’s a mole or a vole?

This blog aims to shed light on the differences between these two little garden invaders, from their physical attributes, their habits, to their preferred meals. We’ll also offer insights into effective wildlife control measures to help you safeguard your yard. Understanding these creatures is the first step in reclaiming your garden. Let’s delve in!

Mole Animal Removal Nashville Tennessee - 629-277-0933 — The Common Vole

Get Rid of Ground Moles Nashville TN — Common Yard Mole

Moles Versus Voles

Moles and voles are two different species of animal. They are not the same animal, even though their names rhyme. Here is a detailed explanation of both a yard mole and a garden vole:

What is a Yard Mole?

Moles are small, furry animals that have adapted to living underground. They are often found in gardens and lawns, where they create elaborate tunnel systems using their powerful paws. These tunnels can be up to 18 inches deep, and moles use them to hunt for their preferred prey of earthworms. Moles are not rodents like voles; instead, they belong to the order Insectivora, and they are more closely related to shrews.

What is a Vole?

Voles, on the other hand, may resemble small mice because they are in fact rodents. They are also known as meadow mice, field mice, or pine voles. Voles have a shorter tail compared to their rodent relatives and are typically found in fields, gardens, meadows, or orchards. Unlike moles, voles do not burrow underground; instead, they create shallow tunnels just under the surface of the soil.

Additional Differences Between a Vole and a Mole

Physical Attributes

At first glance, one might mistake a mole for a vole and vice versa. But upon closer examination, their physical differences become apparent. Moles are insectivorous mammals that have cylindrical bodies with velvety fur, small eyes, and no visible ears. Their large front paws have long claws that help them dig extensive networks of underground tunnels. In contrast, voles are small rodents with rounded bodies covered in short fur and small eyes and ears. Their front paws have shorter claws compared to moles, adapted for digging shallow burrows near the surface.

The Habitat and Habits

Moles prefer moist, loamy soil found in fields, meadows, pastures, or gardens. They primarily feed on earthworms, grubs, and other insects found in the soil. These solitary creatures are most active during early mornings or evenings and spend most of their time underground. On the other hand, voles are herbivores that prefer grassy areas with dense vegetation for cover. They create shallow tunnels near the surface to access food sources such as roots, bulbs, and tubers from plants. Unlike moles, voles are social creatures that live in large colonies.

The Litter Size

Moles and voles also differ in terms of their reproduction rates. While moles typically have one litter of 2-7 pups per year, voles can produce up to 13 litters annually, with each litter consisting of 3-6 pups. This high reproductive rate is one of the reasons why voles can cause much more damage to your garden in a shorter amount of time compared to moles.

Wildlife Control Measures

Effective wildlife control measures involve identifying and understanding the intruders’ habits, behavior, and preferred habitats. For instance, since moles are solitary creatures that dig deep tunnels, trapping or using repellents may be more effective in getting rid of them. On the other hand, voles live in colonies and are more susceptible to exclusion methods such as fencing or planting barriers around your garden. Additionally, keeping your lawn tidy by removing piles of debris can discourage these creatures from taking up residence in your yard.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, understanding the physical differences, habitats, habits, and reproductive rates of moles and voles can help you identify the culprit behind your garden destruction. It is also crucial to choose appropriate wildlife control measures based on the type of invader in your yard. With this knowledge in hand, you can protect your beloved garden from these pesky invaders and enjoy a beautiful and healthy outdoor space all year round.

Would you like some professional critter control help with nuisance yard moles? Contact Mole Miners at 629-277-0933 for TWRA licensed and insured mole trapping and removal services in Nashville, Tennessee and beyond. We serve both residential and commercial customers.

Keeping Your Lawn Mole-Free: The Best Ground Mole Repellents

Posted on November 9, 2023 by moleminers

Do you love a well-manicured lawn, but struggle with those pesky, industrious moles turning it into a battlefield? Fear not, as we are here to help you reclaim your beautiful green space. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of mole controls, exploring effective mole repellents and deterrents that promise to keep your lawn mole-free. Stay with us as we navigate the path to a pristinely-maintained and mole-free lawn.

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Understanding Moles

Before we dive into the best mole repellents and deterrents, let’s first understand these critters. Contrary to popular belief, moles are not rodents but belong to the mammal family Talpidae. They are burrowing mammals that live underground and have cylindrical bodies with short legs and broad forefeet ideal for digging. These creatures possess excellent digging skills, and that coupled with their voracious appetite for worms, insects, and grubs makes them a formidable opponent to your lawn’s lush green grass.

Signs of Mole Activity

The first step in keeping your lawn mole-free is identifying the signs of mole activity. Here are some surefire signs that moles may have taken up residence in your grassy turf:

Mole tunnels and molehills: These are a clear indication of mole activity. Moles dig shallow tunnels to forage for food, which results in the characteristic raised ridges on your lawn’s surface.

Damaged roots or bulbs: As moles burrow through the soil, they may damage plant roots and bulbs. This can lead to stunted growth or even plant death.

Brown patches of grass: As moles search for food, they may uproot the grass, leading to unsightly brown patches on your lawn.

Natural Mole Repellents

If you have noticed any of the signs of moles mentioned above, it’s time to take action and keep these pesky creatures at bay. Here are some natural mole repellents to consider:

Plant natural deterrents: Planting daffodils, marigolds, alliums, or other plants with a strong smell can act as a natural mole deterrent. These plants have an odor that moles dislike and may steer them away from your lawn.

Use castor oil-based products: Castor oil is a natural mole repellent and can be found in various products like granules, sprays, or liquid concentrates. When applied to the soil, castor oil makes it unpalatable for moles and forces them to leave your lawn.

Attract predators: Owls, hawks, and snakes are natural predators of moles. Attracting these animals to your yard can help keep mole populations in check.

Chemical Mole Controls

For severe mole infestations, chemical controls may be necessary. However, it’s essential to remember that these products may also harm beneficial insects and earthworms. Therefore, use them sparingly and follow the instructions carefully. Here are some chemical mole controls to consider:

Mole repellent sprays: These are chemical products that can be sprayed on your lawn to deter moles. They work by releasing a foul odor that is unpleasant to moles but harmless to other animals.

Mole baits: Mole baits contain chemicals that are toxic to moles and can be placed in their tunnels to poison them. However, these products should be handled with care and kept away from children and pets.

Mole gas bombs: These are small smoke bombs that emit a toxic gas when lit. They work by filling the mole’s burrows with poisonous fumes, killing them in the process.

Preventing Future Infestations of Animal Moles

Once you have successfully gotten rid of the moles in your lawn, it’s vital to take preventative measures to avoid future infestations. Here are some tips to help you keep your lawn mole-free:

Maintain a well-manicured lawn: Moles love unkempt lawns as they provide ample cover for them to dig and forage. Keep your grass cut short and tidy up any debris or piles of leaves that may attract moles.

Install physical barriers: Installing a metal mesh or wire fence around your lawn can prevent moles from burrowing into your yard. Additionally, placing gravel or stones along the perimeter of your lawn can also act as a barrier.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, keeping your lawn mole-free requires patience and persistence. By being vigilant and using effective mole repellents and deterrents, you can successfully keep these industrious creatures at bay. Remember to always follow the instructions on any products you use and take preventative measures to avoid future infestations. With the right strategies in place, a beautiful, mole-free lawn is well within your reach.

Looking for professional help with animal mole extraction and exclusion? We can help. Contact Mole Miners at 629-277-0933 for TWRA licensed and insured lawn mole removal in Nashville, Tennessee. We serve all greater Nashville areas, including Hendersonville, Brentwood, Kingston Springs, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, Ashland City, Gallatin, Lebanon, Smyrna, Nolensville, Mt. Juliet, Pleasant View, and all nearby towns!

How to Deter Moles from Your Yard Without Chemicals

Posted on May 4, 2023 by moleminers

Are you tired of dealing with moles in your yard, but don’t want to use harsh chemicals? You may be tempted to reach for pesticides or poison when trying to get rid of these pesky pests, but there are ways to safely deter them without resorting to such drastic measures.

In this blog post, we will discuss a few natural methods that can help you keep moles out of your lawn and garden safely and effectively. Read on for some tips on how to deter moles from your yard without using potentially harmful chemicals.

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Chemical-Free Yard Mole Prevention Methods

Environmental Modification

One of the most simple and effective ways to deter animal moles from your yard is to make it less hospitable for them. Yard moles dig tunnels just beneath the surface of the soil in search of food, such as grubs and earthworms. To make it difficult for them to find these tasty morsels, regularly rake or cultivate your lawn or garden bed to a depth of 6-8 inches. This will disrupt their tunneling activity and cause them to move elsewhere.

Mole Proofing

You can also use physical barriers, such as netting, mesh fencing, or even metal landscape edging, to keep moles away from your desirable plants. Make sure to bury the barrier at least six inches underground to prevent any lawn moles that may be present from getting inside.

Mole Controls

If you notice any molehills in your yard, you can also try using sonic or vibrational devices as a repellent. These devices produce sound waves that irritate moles and other burrowing animals, prompting them to move away from the area. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when using these products.

Natural Mole Repellent

You can also consider making your own natural ground mole repellent. One option is to mix castor oil and dish soap with water and spray it in mole-infested areas. Another solution involves planting daffodils or alliums in your yard, as moles are known to dislike their natural scent. Additionally, you can sprinkle chili powder or cayenne pepper on the ground around your plants to prevent yard moles. With these natural options, you can abate lawn moles without harming the environment or risking harm to your family and pets.

Lawn Care

Finally, be sure to practice good lawn and garden maintenance to keep moles away for good. Mowing regularly and keeping your grass trimmed is one of the best ways to discourage the presence of grubs and other insects that attract moles. Additionally, avoid over-watering your lawn; too much moisture will make it even more hospitable to these critters, so water sparingly and make sure not to create puddles.

Conclusion

By following these tips, you can deter moles from your yard without having to resort to harsh chemicals or poisons. Remember: prevention is key when it comes to dealing with pests, so be sure to keep up with regular lawn maintenance and examine your grounds for signs of mole activity on a regular basis.

Turn to the Pros if Lawn Moles Refuse to Go Away

Having a lawn full of moles can be extremely frustrating and detract from the beauty of your yard. If you’re dealing with an infestation, it’s important to consider hiring professional wildlife control operators in Nashville to get rid of them. Not only will they have the experience and expertise necessary to handle the job safely and effectively, but they’ll also be able to take preventive measures that will help keep ground moles away in the future. Professional yard mole removal services can provide a wide range of benefits that DIY solutions simply cannot match, so if you are looking for a permanent solution, it’s worth considering bringing in an expert.

Are you relentlessly dealing with ground moles and have reached your breaking point? If so, you are in the right place. Contact Mole Miners at 629-277-0933 for TWRA licensed and insured yard mole removal in Nashville, Tennessee. We serve all greater Nashville areas, including Brentwood, Clarksville, Hendersonville, Smyrna, Nolensville, Murfreesboro, Gallatin, Lebanon, Mt. Juliet, Kingston Springs, Ashland City, Pleasant View, and all nearby towns!