As farmers and agriculture professionals, we know that every year, a significant number of crops are lost to various factors such as weather, pests, and diseases. However, there is one culprit that often goes unnoticed – moles. These burrowing creatures cause extensive damage to crops and create tunnels that can hinder the growth of plants. In this article, we will delve into the different types of moles that damage agricultural crops, their habits, the extent of the damage they inflict, and the control measures that can be applied to mitigate their impact.
The Eastern Mole
As farmers and growers, we know how devastating it can be to see our hard work destroyed by pests. One of the most problematic pests that damage agricultural crops is the Eastern mole. These small burrowing mammals may appear harmless but can cause significant damage to plants and roots. In this section, we will learn about the Eastern mole’s description and habits, the damage it causes to crops, and the methods of control that can be used to prevent further damage. Understanding the behavior of this pest is essential for farmers to take appropriate measures to protect their crops.
Description and Habits
The Eastern Mole is a small mammal that is commonly found across North America. They are small, dark-colored creatures with pointed snouts, tiny eyes, and large, paddle-like front feet. These creatures are about 5-6 inches long and weigh about 3-4 ounces. Their bodies are cylindrical, and their fur is soft and silky. Eastern moles love to burrow and prefer dry soil.
The Star-Nosed Mole commonly found in the eastern part of North America, is named after the unique star-like arrangement of the sensory receptors on its snout. These small creatures have large, paddle-like front feet that allow them to dig quickly in soft soil. They are about 6 inches long and weigh about 1.5 ounces, and their fur is thick and water-repellent. The star-nosed mole has an acute sense of touch and can identify food within milliseconds.
The Hairy-Tailed Mole is native to North America and tends to favor moist soil conditions. They have dense fur and a long, nearly hairless tail. These animals are about 6-8 inches long and weigh about 2-4 ounces. They have long, sharp claws on their front feet that help them dig quickly in soil.
The Coast Mole also known as the Pacific Mole has short, velvety fur that ranges from brown to black. These creatures weigh about 3-4 ounces and are about 6 inches in length. They have paddle-like front feet, small eyes, and tiny ears. Coast moles are known to live in deep burrows, especially in coastal areas.
Moles are sweet creatures that play important roles in the ecosystem, but their burrowing can cause major damage to agricultural crops. Knowing how these creatures behave and what habitats they favor can help farmers and gardeners understand how to control and prevent mole damage. For more information on mole damage and how to identify it, check out /identify-mole-damage-crops/.
Damage to Crops
Moles are notorious pests for farmers as they can cause considerable damage to agricultural crops. The damage caused by moles typically includes dislodging or uprooting plants, creating air pockets in the soil, and causing tunneling damage underground. Different types of moles cause different types of damage, which can affect crops in various ways.
The Eastern Mole: Eastern moles are known for their extensive tunneling behavior, which can be problematic for a farmer’s crops. They create tunnels that may dislodge or uproot plants, exposing roots and damaging them in the process. Tunneling can also create air pockets in the soil that can reduce the soil’s water-holding capacity, eventually leading to plant dehydration or death. Farmers may notice the presence of mounds or ridges in their fields, indicating the extent of the moles’ activity. Agricultural fields may also become uneven, which can make it difficult for farmers to operate machinery.
The Star-Nosed Mole: The star-nosed mole mainly feeds on earthworms, insect larvae, and other small invertebrates that live in the soil. Although this type of mole doesn’t harm plants, the extensive tunneling activity can change soil structures and disrupt root systems. This damage can decrease the soil’s fertility, making it difficult for crops to grow adequately.
The Hairy-Tailed Mole: The hairy-tailed mole’s tunneling activity is similar to that of the eastern mole, damaging plant roots and creating air pockets in the soil. However, there is a silver lining to this mole’s activity. The tunnels dug by these moles can create better soil drainage, which can be helpful for plants growing in overly saturated soil.
The Coast Mole: Coast moles like to build their underground tunnels close to the soil’s surface, which can lead to visible damage to crops. These moles not only displace and uproot plants, but they also create tunnels in the soil that can cause water to accumulate, leading to waterlogging. These conditions can create an environment suitable for diseases to thrive, increasing the risk of crop loss.
The damage caused by moles can range from dislodging and uprooting plants to creating tunnels that change the soil’s structure, fertility, and drainage. Farmers should take measures to protect their crops from mole damage as soon as possible. For more information on the economic impact of mole damage on agricultural crops, preventative measures, or controlling mole damage in agriculture, check out the relevant resources.
Control Measures
Control measures for moles primarily focus on prevention, trapping, and removal. Preventive measures include ensuring that crops are planted in well-drained soils, which are less favorable to moles. Additionally, farmers can try using plants that moles dislike, such as daffodils, marigolds, and alliums. These can be planted around the edges of fields to help deter moles from entering.
Mole trapping is also an effective method of controlling their population, with a number of different trap types available. One of the most popular types of traps is the scissor-jaw trap, which is designed to quickly kill the mole. It is important to make sure that traps are placed in areas where mole activity has been observed, such as along their runways and in their burrow systems.
If mole activity is particularly high or causing significant damage, professional pest control services may be necessary. These individuals are trained in identifying the type of mole and using the most effective methods to control the population.
It is important for farmers to take mole damage seriously, as it can have a significant economic impact on their crops. Prevention and control measures are essential to ensure that crop yields are not significantly impacted by mole activity. For more information on preventing and controlling mole damage in agriculture, visit agri-mole-prevention or read about the economic impact of mole damage on agricultural crops.
The Star-Nosed Mole
The next type of mole that poses a threat to agricultural crops is a small but mighty creature known for its unique nasal organ – the star-nosed mole. These burrowing creatures have a peculiar appearance, with 22 fleshy tentacles protruding from their snouts. Despite their small size, these critters can wreak havoc on crops, gardens, and even golf courses. In the following sections, we will explore the description, habits, damage to crops, and control measures of the star-nosed mole. If you want to know more about general control measures for all types of moles, check out our article on controlling mole damage in agriculture.
Description and Habits
The Eastern Mole is a small mammal that can grow up to seven inches in length. It has gray to brown fur and a pointed snout which it uses to burrow through soil. Their eyes are very small and are covered by fur, so they have poor eyesight. However, they have a highly developed sense of hearing and touch. The Eastern Mole’s habitat is located in most of the eastern parts of North America. It is known for its unique ability to burrow underground, creating tunnels that can span up to 100 feet in length.
The Star-Nosed Mole is a small, insectivorous mole found in the wetlands and forests of Eastern North America. This mole has a unique pink, star-shaped nose that is used to detect prey in the dark. The star nose contains up to 25,000 sensory receptors to help the mole navigate its environment. The mole’s thick, brown fur provides insulation and protection from the harsh environments in which it lives.
The Hairy-Tailed Mole is a small mole that usually grows up to six inches in length. It is covered in soft, gray-brown fur and has a long, furry tail. This mole’s habitat includes grasslands, fields, and meadows throughout North America. Hairy-tailed moles are active throughout the year and can often be seen above ground in the early morning or late afternoon. They are solitary animals and only interact with other members of their species for mating purposes.
The Coast Mole is a small, dark-colored mole found in the coastal regions of western North America. This mole has adapted to living in sandy or loose soil environments, where it builds its burrows. The mole’s webbed front feet and short, stocky body make it an excellent swimmer, and it is often found in marshy or aquatic areas.
In summary, each species of mole has unique physical characteristics and behaviors that allow them to survive in their respective habitats. They are all primarily insectivorous and use their sharp claws to burrow through soil and create tunnels. Understanding their physical traits and behaviors is crucial for developing effective control measures against these pests.
Damage to Crops
When it comes to the damage caused by moles to agricultural crops, it varies depending on the type of mole that is present. Here is a breakdown of the different types of moles and how they damage crops:
| Mole Type | Damage to Crops |
|---|---|
| The Eastern Mole | The Eastern Mole can cause significant damage to crops by uprooting plants and creating tunnels that damage root systems. This can lead to stunted growth or even death of the affected plants. Additionally, the mounds of dirt created by their tunneling can make harvesting difficult and damage farm equipment. |
| The Star-Nosed Mole | The Star-Nosed Mole is not typically known for causing damage to crops as it primarily feeds on insects, but it can still cause harm to root systems and soil structure through its tunneling. |
| The Hairy-Tailed Mole | The Hairy-Tailed Mole can cause significant damage to crops by tunneling beneath the soil and uprooting plants. This can lead to stunted growth or death of the affected plants. Additionally, they can create unsightly mounds of dirt that can damage farm equipment and make harvesting difficult. |
| The Coast Mole | The Coast Mole primarily feeds on earthworms and larvae, so its damage to crops is generally minimal. However, their tunneling can still cause erosion and damage to root systems. |
Moles can cause significant damage to agricultural crops through their tunneling and uprooting of plants. It’s important for farmers to take measures to control mole populations and minimize their impact on crops.
Control Measures
Controlling moles that damage agricultural crops can be a challenging task, but it’s not impossible. Here are some effective control measures that can help prevent or eliminate mole damage.
- Physical barriers: Installing physical barriers such as underground fencing or mole netting can help prevent moles from accessing your crops.
- Repellents: Mothballs, castor oil or red pepper flakes can be used as natural repellents that can keep moles away from the crops. However, it’s important to note that repellents are not always effective.
- Trapping: Trapping is the most effective and humane way to control moles. Various types of traps are available, including the harpoon trap, scissor-jaw trap and choker loop trap. Once trapped, the moles can be released at a safe distance from your crops.
- Poison: Poison baits can also be used to control moles, but it’s important to be cautious, as they can be dangerous to other animals and even humans.
- Cultural practices: Cultural practices such as planting mole-resistant crops or removing their food sources (such as grubs and insects) can also help reduce mole damage.
Using a combination of these control measures can help effectively manage and prevent mole damage to your agricultural crops. It’s important to evaluate which control measure is most appropriate for your situation and to use it consistently for optimal results.
The Hairy-Tailed Mole
As we continue to explore the common types of moles that damage agricultural crops, we come across another notorious pest – the hairy-tailed mole. This small and elusive creature is known for its destructive digging habits and can cause significant damage to crops if left unchecked. In this section, we’ll delve into the description, habits, crop damage caused by the hairy-tailed mole, and the measures to control their population in the fields.
Description and Habits
Let’s start by discussing the description and habits of each type of mole that is known to damage agricultural crops.
The Eastern Mole:
The Eastern Mole is small and has a cylindrical body that ranges from 4-6 inches long. Their fur is usually grayish brown and is velvety to the touch. They have short, powerful legs and large, spade-like front paws that enable them to tunnel through soil with ease.
These moles prefer to burrow in moist, fertile soil, and will establish their burrows in areas that have large amounts of earthworms and insects, which they feed on. Their tunneling can cause damage to roots of plants and create unsightly ridges and furrows in the soil.
The Star-Nosed Mole:
The Star-Nosed Mole is a unique creature with a distinctive star-shaped nose that makes it easily identifiable. They are small, weighing only 1-2 ounces, and are usually 5-7 inches long. Their fur is dark brown and their tails are covered in scales, making them easier to grip when they are tunneling.
These moles live in marshy areas and feed on aquatic animals like insects, small fish, and snails. They are also known to eat earthworms and other invertebrates that live in the soil. The tunnels that they create can lead to soil erosion, which can be problematic for crops and other vegetation.
The Hairy-Tailed Mole:
The Hairy-Tailed Mole is a medium-sized mole, with adults weighing between 2.5-4 ounces and being 6-8 inches long. They have a unique appearance with a long, narrow snout and large, rounded ears. Their fur is typically a dark, grayish-brown color and is relatively long and shaggy.
These moles prefer to live in grasslands and forested areas, where they feed on insects, worms, and other small invertebrates. They are known for their ability to dig deep tunnels, which can be problematic for crops, as they frequently uproot plants and create tunnels in the soil.
The Coast Mole:
Finally, the Coast Mole is a small, dark-colored mole that is typically found in coastal areas along the western coast of the United States. Adults weigh between 1-2 ounces and are around 6-7 inches long. They have silky fur that ranges from dark gray to black, and their tails are relatively short and thin.
These moles feed on earthworms, insects, and other invertebrates that are found underground, and they are known for their ability to create extensive tunnel systems. The tunnels that they create can cause soil erosion and uproot crops, making them significant pests for agricultural areas.
Damage to Crops
The damage caused by moles to agricultural crops can be significant, leading to crop loss and reduced yields. Here is a table highlighting the common types of moles that damage agricultural crops and the types of crops they affect.
| Mole Type | Types of Crops Affected |
|---|---|
| The Eastern Mole | vegetables, berries, grains, and ornamental plants |
| The Star-Nosed Mole | vegetables, fruits, grains, and ornamental plants |
| The Hairy-Tailed Mole | vegetables, flowers, bulbs, and shrubs |
| The Coast Mole | vegetables, fruits, and ornamental plants |
As seen in the table, moles can cause damage to a wide variety of crops, including vegetables, fruits, grains, ornamental plants, bulbs, and shrubs. The Eastern Mole is particularly known for causing damage to vegetables, berries, grains, and ornamental plants, while the Star-Nosed Mole can damage vegetables, fruits, grains, and ornamental plants. The Hairy-Tailed Mole is a threat to vegetables, flowers, bulbs, and shrubs, and the Coast Mole can cause damage to vegetables, fruits, and ornamental plants. Control measures are necessary to prevent economic losses and crop damage.
Control Measures
When it comes to controlling the damage caused by moles on agricultural crops, there are a number of measures that can be taken. These include:
- Trapping: One common method of mole control is trapping. This involves setting traps in active mole tunnels in order to capture and remove the pests. Live traps can be used to remove moles without harming them, which is the preferred method for many farmers and gardeners.
- Poison: Another option for mole control is the use of poisons. However, poisoning can be risky for other animals and may not be effective in all cases. If using poison, it’s important to follow instructions carefully and to avoid using it in areas where other animals may be at risk.
- Repellents: There are a variety of mole repellents available on the market, including chemical and natural options. Chemical repellents work by emitting an odor or taste that the moles find unpleasant. Natural repellents may include plant extracts or other substances that moles find unpleasant or irritating.
- Physical Barriers: Barriers such as fences or netting may be effective in keeping moles away from certain areas of a farm or garden. These barriers can be particularly helpful for protecting individual plants or small areas from mole damage.
- Cultural Practices: Maintaining a healthy, well-drained soil can discourage moles from digging in an area. Additionally, reducing the density of earthworms— a primary food source for moles— can make an area less attractive to the pests. Planting certain species of plants, such as marigolds or garlic, may also help deter moles.
Mole control requires a combination of methods tailored to the specific situation. Often, a multi-faceted approach that includes several different control measures will be most effective in minimizing mole damage to agricultural crops.
The Coast Mole
Moving on to another type of mole that can cause significant damage to agricultural crops, we have a perplexing creature that goes by the name of the coast mole. These small burrowing animals have unique characteristics that set them apart from other types of moles, making them a particularly challenging pest to control. In this section, we will take a closer look at the habits and behaviors of coast moles, the types of damage they can inflict on crops, and the most effective measures for keeping them at bay.
Description and Habits
At this section, we will examine the description and habits of each type of mole that damages agricultural crops.
The Eastern Mole:
- The Eastern mole, also known as the common mole, is a small mammal that very rarely grows more than 6.5 inches in length.
- They have distinctive pointed snouts and webbed feet perfectly adapted for burrowing and tunneling through the soil.
- They have velvety greyish-brown fur and very small eyes and ears which are cleverly concealed by their fur.
- They spend most of their time underground and are known to be solitary creatures.
The Star-Nosed Mole:
- The Star-Nosed mole is a small but stout-bodied mole that can reach up to 6 inches in length.
- They have distinctive star-shaped appendages around the snout with 22 fleshy, pink tentacles,
- They have dense fur that is dark brown to black in color and are semi-aquatic, preferring to live in marshes, wetlands, and other damp areas.
- Despite their small size, they are incredibly strong, powerful burrowers because of their muscular, stocky appearance.
The Hairy-Tailed Mole:
- The Hairy-Tailed mole is a medium-sized species that can grow up to 8.5 inches in length.
- They have distinctive fur that is generally dark brown on the back and sides, and they may have a lighter-colored belly.
- They have a long-haired tail, which makes up more than half the length of their body, and their feet are large compared to their body size.
- They spend most of their time underground and are very active burrowers, making them a significant threat to crops.
The Coast Mole:
- The Coast mole is a small mammal that can grow up to 6 inches in length.
- They have dense, dark brown fur and a blunt, pointed nose,
- They have large, paddle-like front feet and smaller hind feet, which are well-suited for moving soil.
- They burrow through the soil in search of food, and their burrows can be very deep and can cover large areas, putting farm crops at risk.
These moles have different characteristics and habits that make them challenging to control when they damage crops. Understanding their behavior and unique features is crucial for choosing appropriate control measures for each type of mole.
Damage to Crops
The damage caused by moles on agricultural crops can be severe if not controlled in time. Below we have discussed the types of moles that can damage crops and the potential damage they can cause.
| Mole Type | Potential Damage to Crops |
|---|---|
| The Eastern Mole | This type can cause significant damage to sod and root crops. They create tunnels under the surface of the soil, dislodging plants and destroying roots. This can lead to large areas of crop loss. |
| The Star-Nosed Mole | Although less common in agricultural settings, the Star-nosed mole can still cause issues. They primarily feed on earthworms, but they can still create superficial tunnels in the soil that can lead to soil erosion and eventual crop loss. |
| The Hairy-Tailed Mole | This type of mole mainly damages perennial crops in orchards and vineyards. They burrow through the ground, damaging root systems and weakening the trees. This can result in stunted growth and decreased productivity of the crops. |
| The Coast Mole | The Coast Mole’s burrowing has significant negative effects on agricultural land. They form ridges and extensive tunnel systems that can cause damage to agricultural equipment, disrupt planting, and uproot plants in gardens and flower beds. Their burrowing may also lead to soil erosion, which can result in reduced soil fertility and decreased crop yields. |
Controlling mole populations is important for protecting agricultural crops from damage. It’s essential to identify the type of mole that is causing the damage to determine the most effective control methods. Proactive control measures should be taken to minimize economic losses caused by mole damage.
Control Measures
When it comes to dealing with moles that cause damage to agricultural crops, control measures should be taken to keep their population under control. A few effective control measures are as follows:
- Trapping: This is considered the most effective way to control mole populations. It involves placing spring-loaded traps in mole tunnels or runways to catch them. It is crucial to set traps correctly in active mole tunnels to ensure success.
- Repellents: There are many types of repellents that farmers can use to deter moles from their crops. Some repellents work by emitting a scent that the moles find unpleasant, while others work by emitting vibrations that disrupt the moles’ movement. However, the effectiveness of these repellents varies, and they may not work for all mole species.
- Natural predators: Some animals, such as owls, hawks, and snakes, feed on moles, and farmers can encourage the presence of such predators on their land to control mole populations. However, it may be challenging to attract natural predators, and they may not be effective in controlling large populations of moles.
- Barriers: Farmers can install barriers like mesh fabric or hardware cloth around their crops to prevent moles from reaching them. However, these barriers can be costly and time-consuming to install, and are not guaranteed to be 100% effective.
It is essential to note that while these control measures can be effective, they should be part of an integrated pest management plan that considers crop rotation, cultivation practices, and other non-chemical control measures. Farmers should take a comprehensive approach to controlling mole populations and discuss their options with local pest control experts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is clear that moles can be a major problem for agricultural crops. All of the types of moles that we have discussed, including the Eastern Mole, the Star-Nosed Mole, the Hairy-Tailed Mole, and the Coast Mole, can cause damage to crops that can result in significant economic losses for farmers.
It is important for farmers to be aware of the habits and behaviors of moles in order to effectively control them. Control measures can range from physical barriers like fencing or traps, to chemical treatments like pesticides. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of different control measures and choose the one that is most effective and sustainable for your particular situation.
Overall, while moles can be a formidable adversary for farmers, with the right knowledge and tools, it is possible to effectively minimize their impact on agricultural crops. By taking a proactive approach to mole control, farmers can help to ensure that their crops are safe and healthy, and that their livelihoods are protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are moles and why do they damage agricultural crops?
Moles are small, burrowing mammals that can cause significant damage to agricultural crops by tunneling through the soil and feeding on plant roots and bulbs.
What is the Eastern Mole?
The Eastern Mole is a common species of mole found in North America. They are small, with a pointed snout and powerful limbs for digging.
What are the habits of the Eastern Mole?
The Eastern Mole is a solitary creature that is primarily active during the spring and fall. They are most active at night and spend most of their time underground.
What damage can the Eastern Mole cause to crops?
The Eastern Mole can cause significant damage to crops by tunneling through the soil and uprooting plants. They feed on a variety of plant roots and bulbs and can cause extensive damage to lawns and gardens.
What are the control measures for the Eastern Mole?
Control measures for the Eastern Mole include trapping and removing them from the area. Additionally, cultural practices such as reducing watering and fertilization can deter moles from the area.
What is the Star-Nosed Mole?
The Star-Nosed Mole is a unique species of mole with a distinctive star-shaped nose. They are found in wet, marshy areas and are more aquatic than other species of moles.
What are the habits of the Star-Nosed Mole?
The Star-Nosed Mole is an excellent swimmer and spends much of its time in the water. They are active year-round and primarily feed on insects and small aquatic creatures.
What damage can the Star-Nosed Mole cause to crops?
The Star-Nosed Mole is not typically known for causing damage to crops. However, their burrowing activity can create holes and tunnels in lawns and gardens.
What are the control measures for the Star-Nosed Mole?
Control measures for the Star-Nosed Mole include preventing access to wet areas by clearing brush and debris. Trapping and removing them from the area is also an effective control method.
What is the Hairy-Tailed Mole?
The Hairy-Tailed Mole is a small species of mole found throughout North America. They have long, black fur and a short, hairy tail.
What are the habits of the Hairy-Tailed Mole?
The Hairy-Tailed Mole is primarily active during the spring and fall and spends most of its time underground. They feed on a variety of insects and worms.
