Introduction To Moles
Moles may be small, but they can cause big problems for landowners, farmers, and homeowners. From unsightly molehills to damaged pastures and disrupted soil, these underground tunnelers can quickly turn a well-kept landscape into a bumpy, uneven mess. But how much do we really know about them? Are they solitary creatures, or do they work together? When are they most active, and what’s the best way to keep them under control?
In this Blog, we dive into the fascinating world of moles, exploring their behavior, the most effective control methods, and how Lodi UK’s range of mole control solutions stacks up against the competition. Whether you’re dealing with an ongoing mole problem or simply curious about these elusive creatures, we’ve got expert insights to help you tackle the issue head-on. Let’s dig in!
About Matt:
It was a long time ago, much longer now than it seems, In a place that perhaps you have seen in your dreams………..
I started my career in Pest Control back in 2009. My previous background had strangely been in recruitment, so moving into the world of Pests was a very alien one and I wasn’t fully sure at the time that it was for me.
It took me a few months but I bedded in pretty quickly and found this new passion for all the different aspects of Pest Control which were lacking in my previous roles. The excitement of one day being nose deep in bird crap and the next day in some millionaires mansion was such a polar difference and made no two days the same.
The main focus of my role was in a surveyor capacity, this meant that I was normally the first person on site to assess and establish the level of activity and what treatments would be best carried out to ensure complete control over the problem, then providing the customer with a quotation for costs involved. Mole activity and mole treatments for some can be a very difficult process to maintain control over. Moles can be tricky and clever little critters and in some cases will backfill runs when coming across traps, it takes time and training to execute the perfect mole trapping program by a technical operative.
I have compiled a brief guide and information blog below on Moles and what different methods of control we here at Lodi UK can offer.
Understanding Moles & Their Behavior
What signs should landowners, farmers, or homeowners look for to confirm they have a mole problem?
Moles often leave distinct indicators of their presence. One primary sign is the appearance of molehills—small, conical mounds of soil resulting from moles excavating their tunnels. Additionally, surface tunnels manifest as raised ridges or depressions, creating a crisscross pattern across lawns. These tunnels can disrupt plant roots, leading to areas of discolored or dead grass. Another clue is loose or spongy soil, which results from the mole's underground activities. An unexpected proliferation of weeds may also occur, as moles' tunneling disrupts the soil, providing an opportunity for weeds to establish.
Are moles solitary creatures, or do they live in groups?
Moles are predominantly solitary animals. Each mole maintains its own network of tunnels and territories, coming together only briefly during the breeding season. It's uncommon to find multiple moles sharing the same tunnel system, so typically, the signs of activity in a given area are the work of a single individual.
What months are moles most active?
Moles remain active throughout the year; however, their activity often intensifies during the spring and autumn months. In spring, increased insect activity provides abundant food sources, while in autumn, moles prepare for the colder months ahead. During winter, moles may tunnel deeper to avoid frozen ground, and in summer, extreme heat can drive them to seek cooler, subterranean environments.
Effective Mole Control Methods
What are the most effective ways to control moles?
Effective mole control often involves a combination of methods. Trapping is widely regarded as one of the most reliable techniques, utilising devices specifically designed to capture moles within their tunnels. Maintaining a healthy lawn by reducing excess moisture and controlling grub populations can also make the environment less attractive to moles.
When is the best time of year to target moles for control?
The optimal times to implement mole control measures are during the spring and autumn. These periods correspond with heightened mole activity near the soil surface, making them more susceptible to trapping and other control methods. Addressing mole issues during these seasons can lead to more effective and lasting results.
How do mole traps work, and do you have any expert tips for using them successfully?
Mole traps are designed to intercept moles as they navigate through their tunnels. Devices like the Racan Claw Mole Trap are triggered by the mole's natural behavior of clearing soil, ensuring a humane and swift capture. For successful use, it's crucial to identify active tunnels by observing fresh molehills or surface disturbances. Placing the trap in these active runs and ensuring it is properly set will increase the likelihood of capturing the mole. Regularly checking and repositioning the trap as needed can also enhance effectiveness.
What are some common mistakes people make when trying to get rid of moles?
A frequent mistake is misidentifying the problem, confusing mole activity with that of other burrowing animals like voles, leading to ineffective control strategies. Additionally, relying solely on unproven home remedies or deterrents without addressing the underlying issues, such as abundant food sources or favorable soil conditions, can prolong the infestation.
The Role of Professional Pest Controllers
When should someone call in a professional pest controller for a mole issue?
If the infestation is extensive, it's advisable to consult a professional pest controller. Professionals have specialised knowledge, experience, and access to advanced tools and techniques that can effectively address persistent or severe mole issues.
What sets a professional approach apart from DIY methods?
Professional pest controllers offer a systematic and comprehensive approach to mole control. They conduct thorough assessments to accurately identify the extent of the infestation and the specific species involved. Utilising specialised equipment and proven methods, professionals can implement targeted strategies that are both effective and humane. Their expertise also allows them to provide tailored advice on preventing future infestations, addressing environmental factors that DIY methods would overlook.
Lodi UK & Mole Control Solutions
What products does Lodi UK offer to help with mole control?
Lodi UK offers a range of products designed for effective mole control. The Racan Claw Mole Trap is a professional-grade device known for its high success rate. This trap is triggered by the mole's natural soil-clearing actions and features a double-entry design, allowing access from either side of the tunnel.
How do Lodi UK’s mole control products compare to other options on the market?
Lodi UK's mole control products are distinguished by their professional-grade quality and effectiveness. The Racan Claw Mole Trap, for instance, is designed with features that enhance its success rate, such as its double-entry system and sensitivity to the mole's natural behaviors.
What’s the most surprising thing people don’t know about moles?
Many people are surprised to learn that moles play a beneficial role in soil health. Their tunneling activities aerate the soil, promoting nutrient circulation and improving drainage.
While their presence can be disruptive to manicured lawns and gardens and potentially cause damage to livestock such as cattle and sheep when falling through the roof of tunneling systems, moles do have an important part to play in the ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, effective mole control requires a strategic approach that considers both the biology of the mole and the most suitable control methods. Seasonal timing is crucial—spring and autumn offer the best conditions for trapping due to increased mole activity near the surface.
Additionally, integrating habitat management practices, such as reducing excessive soil moisture and controlling insect populations, can make an environment less appealing to moles. While moles can provide ecological benefits through soil aeration, their damage to landscapes and agricultural land makes proactive control essential.
By combining expert knowledge with high-quality tools, professional pest controllers can ensure effective and sustainable mole management.
