Subterranean burrows, strange mounds of earth on your lawn, constantly visible ground tunnels – all these could point to only one suspect: the elusive mole. These agile critters, although often portrayed as lawn terrorists, are impressive predators and ecological pest control agents. However, their omnivorous habit is often reduced to a single component – grubs. While moles are undoubtedly drawn to these juicy larvae, their diet is more diverse than that. In this article, we will explore the lesser-known sides of moles’ eating preferences and behavior, as well as discuss how to recognize their presence and manage it.
Moles’ Diet
As one of the most versatile mammals, the moles have developed a unique omnivorous diet that allows them to consume a variety of food sources. This raises the question among homeowners of what could be attracting moles to their yards, and if grubs are the only reason that these creatures are digging up their lawn. Besides grubs, moles feed on insects, vegetation, and small animals. Understanding their diet can provide helpful insights into their behavior and how to control them. In the following sections, we will explore the different components of moles’ diet and their significance.
Grubs
One of the primary reasons why moles visit your yard is their love for grubs. Grubs are beetle larvae that lurk beneath the soil surface, and moles adore them! The larval stage of many beetles provides an excellent source of protein for moles, and they will actively seek them out.
Below is a table that highlights some of the most common types of grubs that moles prefer:
| Grubs | Description |
|---|---|
| Japanese Beetle Grubs | These are plump, white grubs with brown heads, and they usually prefer the roots of grasses and other plants. |
| May/June Beetle Grubs | These grubs are C-shaped and range from creamy white to dark brown. They are known to infest lawns and can cause significant damage if not controlled. |
| European Chafer Grubs | These grubs are small, crescent-shaped, and have a brown head. They can be found in large numbers beneath the soil, especially in lush lawns. |
If your garden is infested with grubs, you are likely to see more mole activity in that area. However, it’s important to note that moles do not rely solely on grubs for their diet. They are known to eat a variety of other creatures and plant matter as well. Understanding the full scope of their diet can help you prevent mole damage to your yard and garden.
To learn more about how moles’ diet affects lawn health, read our article on Moles’ Diet and Lawn Health. If you’re looking for ways to modify your garden layout to repel moles, our article on Modifying Your Garden Layout to Repel Moles may be of interest.
Insects
Moles are known to be insectivorous, and grubs are often thought to be their main food source. However, moles’ diet is not limited to grubs alone. They also consume a variety of other insects, which include:
| Insects Eaten by Moles | Description |
|---|---|
| Earthworms | One of the most common prey items for moles. They are a good source of protein and relatively easy to catch. |
| Beetle larvae | Also called grubs, they are a popular food source for moles. They are high in fat and protein, making them a nutritious meal. |
| Ants | They are eaten by moles, but they are not a major part of their diet. They are a good source of protein but are relatively small and require a lot of energy to catch. |
| Centipedes | They are eaten by moles, but they are not a major part of their diet. They are high in protein but also difficult to catch due to their speed and agility. |
| Cricket and grasshopper | They are eaten by moles, but they are not a major part of their diet. They are high in protein but also require a lot of energy to catch. |
It is important to note that while moles primarily hunt and eat insects, they are also known to consume small animals and vegetation. Understanding the full extent of moles’ omnivorous nature can help in controlling and preventing their presence in your yard. To learn more about the nutritional needs of moles and how to protect your garden from their appetite, check out our guide on the nutritional needs of moles and how to control them.
Vegetation
Moles are not strictly insectivores as they are often depicted. Moles are also known to feed on vegetation. While vegetation does not make up a significant portion of their diet, it is still an important aspect of their omnivorous nature.
Here are some examples of vegetation that Moles sometimes feed on:
- Bulbs
- Tubers
- Roots
- Grass
Moles have an interesting way of foraging on vegetation. They use their powerful front paws to dig through the soil and excavate their food. This process can significantly impact the root system of plants, leading to damaged or dead plants. Moles that feed on vegetation can be particularly damaging to gardens and other cultivated areas.
If you have noticed damage to your plants and suspect moles are the culprit, it is important to confirm their presence first. Knowing what to look for can help.You can read more about mole’s other habits in the previous sections: Grubs, Insects, and Small Animals.
Small Animals
When we think of moles, we often picture them tunneling through the ground in search of grubs and other insects. However, moles are actually omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods to supplement their diet. One of those food sources is small animals. While not as common as insects and grubs, moles will occasionally prey on small animals if the opportunity presents itself.
What kind of small animals do moles eat?
Moles have been known to eat small animals such as earthworms, snails, slugs, and even small rodents like mice and shrews. They may also consume the eggs of ground-nesting birds.
Why do moles eat small animals?
Moles primarily eat insects and grubs, but small animals may be a source of additional protein and nutrients. Predation of small animals may also be related to competition for resources or territorial disputes with other burrowing animals.
What is the impact of moles eating small animals?
While the occasional consumption of small animals by moles is generally not harmful to the ecosystem, too much predation can have negative consequences. For example, if moles consume too many earthworms, it can have a detrimental effect on soil health and can impact other animals that rely on earthworms as a food source.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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While small animals are not the primary food source for moles, they do play a role in their omnivorous diet. Understanding the different types of food moles eat can help us better manage and control their presence in our yards.
Moles’ Behavior
When it comes to the behavior of moles, these small creatures can often leave homeowners feeling perplexed. While many of us may only be familiar with their habit of digging tunnels in our yard, moles are actually complex animals with intricate mating habits, territorial tendencies, and a significant impact on the environment around them. In order to better understand how to handle mole infestations, it’s important to delve deeper into their behavior and learn more about what makes them tick. So let’s explore the fascinating world of moles and their unique behavior patterns.
Mating Habits
Moles typically mate during the spring season, and males are known to travel great distances in search of females. The courtship process involves the male locating the female’s tunnel system, which can be identified by her pheromones. Once the male finds the female, he initiates a series of behaviors to indicate his desire to mate. These include tail wagging, vocalizations, and even biting.
After mating, the female goes through a gestation period of about four to six weeks before giving birth to a litter of two to six young. The young moles are born blind, hairless, and completely helpless, and they rely on their mother for nourishment and protection until they are mature enough to venture out on their own. Males do not play a significant role in the rearing of their offspring.
Female moles are capable of having multiple litters each year, depending on environmental conditions and food availability. The high rate of reproduction allows moles to quickly repopulate areas where their populations have declined. Females have been known to mate with multiple males during a breeding season, which can increase genetic diversity within the population.
While moles are primarily solitary animals, they do exhibit some social behavior during the mating season. Males actively search for mates, and female moles have been observed engaging in aggressive behaviors towards each other as they compete for the attention of males. Despite the occasional aggression, the mating season is a critical time for the survival of the species as a whole, and it serves an important purpose in maintaining genetic diversity and population health.
Territoriality
Moles are known for their territorial behavior, and will fiercely defend their territory from other moles. This behavior is largely due to the competition for food and mating opportunities. Moles have large home ranges, with one mole occupying about 1/5th of an acre of land.
Moles’ Territorial Behavior
Moles mark their territory by depositing scent from their anal glands in strategic locations along their tunnel network. They will also aggressively chase out intruders from their territory, sometimes leading to physical fights.
Competition for Food and Mating Opportunities
The need for food and mating opportunities drives territorial behavior in moles. Moles are omnivorous and feed on a variety of small animals, insects, and vegetation. They also have a preference for grubs, which are found in rich soil. This is why moles are often seen in well-manicured lawns and gardens.
Multiple Moles in One Area
It is not uncommon for several moles to occupy the same area, especially in large open spaces with abundant food sources. While territorial behavior is important for the survival of individual moles, it is not necessarily a barrier to socializing or coexisting with other moles.
Controlling Moles Through Trapping and Relocation
If you are facing mole problems in your yard, trapping and relocation can be an effective control method. However, before attempting to trap moles, it is important to identify the extent of the infestation and the number of moles present. This will ensure that trapping efforts are successful and that the moles do not continue to cause damage to your yard.
| Pros | Cons |
| Trapping and relocation is a humane method of controlling moles. | Trapping and relocation can be time-consuming and requires knowledge of mole behavior. |
| Trapped moles can be released into areas with suitable habitats, away from human populations. | Trapping and relocation is not always successful and can be costly. |
| Trapping and relocation does not involve the use of harmful chemicals or poisons, making it safe for other animals and the environment. | Trapping and relocation can lead to mole overcrowding in certain areas, causing other problems. |
Preventing Moles Through Vegetation Management
In addition to trapping and relocation, proper vegetation management can also help prevent mole problems. Moles are attracted to well-manicured lawns and gardens with high soil quality, so reducing soil quality by adding sand or gravel can make an area less attractive to moles. Additionally, planting vegetation that moles do not like, such as daffodils or marigolds, can also help prevent mole damage.
Environmental Impact
Moles, despite being small creatures, can have a significant impact on their environment. Let’s explore some of the environmental impacts of moles in the table below:
| Environmental Impact | Description |
|---|---|
| Soil Aeration | Moles aerate the soil while tunnelling, which improves soil structure and allows for better root growth. |
| Seed Dispersion | As moles dig through the soil, they can unintentionally disperse seeds, helping to spread plant life. |
| Garden and Crop Damage | Moles can cause damage to gardens and crops by uprooting plants and damaging root systems. This can result in reduced yields and stunted growth. |
| Contaminated Waterways | Moles can burrow into the banks of bodies of water, causing erosion and increasing sediment deposits. This can lead to contamination of waterways and harm aquatic wildlife. |
| Impact on Ecosystems | Moles can impact ecosystems by altering the soil structure and changing the composition of vegetation. This can have a ripple effect on other species that rely on these ecosystems. |
While moles may have some beneficial impacts on the environment, their behavior can also lead to negative consequences. It’s important to consider the balance between living harmoniously with nature and protecting our own interests.
Moles’ Signs of Presence in Your Yard
As you stroll through your yard, you might notice raised ridges of soil or mounds of dirt scattered about, wondering what might be the cause. Could it be a mischievous gopher? A colony of ground squirrels? No, it’s quite likely that you have a mole problem. Moles are solitary creatures that typically inhabit yards during the spring and fall, but may make appearances year-round. Their subterranean lifestyle can make it difficult to detect them, but there are several signs of their presence that you ought to keep an eye out for. Let’s explore them in detail.
Surface Tunnels and Molehills
One of the most visible signs of moles’ presence in your yard are the surface tunnels and molehills they create while burrowing underground. These tunnels are usually raised and can be identified by their distinctive “S” or “U” shapes on the ground. This is because moles create these tunnels as they dig deeper into the soil in search of food.
Here are some key indicators of surface tunnels and molehills:
- Small ridges raised above the ground level
- Sagging or raised soil spots on the ground
- Loose soil around an area without any visible entrance or exit points
- Patches of dried or dead grass
If you notice any of the above signs in your yard, it’s likely that moles have set up residence there. The raised tunnels pose a tripping hazard and can make your yard look unkempt, ruining its aesthetic appeal. The molehills can render your lawn or garden unsightly and may even cause damage to your lawnmower blades or gardening tools.
However, while surface tunnels and molehills are signs of moles’ activity, they are not always very accurate indicators of the severity of the infestation. For instance, just because you see a few molehills doesn’t necessarily mean that you have an infestation. In the same vein, not all moles create visible tunnels, so the absence of surface tunnels doesn’t mean that you’re entirely free of moles.
It’s important to take note of these signs and to address them properly to control the mole population in your yard.
Root and Bulb Damage
Moles’ presence in your yard may result in root and bulb damage due to their burrowing activities. When moles build their tunnels, they may inadvertently disturb the roots of plants, causing them to wither and die. Moles’ digging may disrupt bulbs planted in the soil, causing them to be displaced or disturbed.
Here are some examples of the types of plants moles may damage:
| Plants | Effects of Damage |
|---|---|
| Tulips | Wilting, poor flowering |
| Hibiscus | Stunted growth, fewer flowers |
| Hostas | Yellowing, leaf loss |
| Daffodils | Deformed flowers, poor growth |
Preventing root and bulb damage can be challenging, but there are some steps you can take to protect your plants. One simple technique is to create a barrier between your plants and the moles. You can do this by digging a trench around the perimeter of your garden bed and lining it with a mesh or hardware cloth that extends both below and above ground level. Alternatively, you can try planting less attractive plants to deter moles from digging in your garden. Finally, removing potential food sources like grubs and other insects may help reduce the likelihood of moles visiting your yard in the first place.
Underground Tunnels
One of the most common signs that there are moles present in your yard are their underground tunnels. Moles create a network of tunnels underground in order to search for food and to travel safely from one place to another.
There are two main types of underground tunnels that moles create: shallow tunnels and deep tunnels. Shallow tunnels are typically used for searching for food, while deeper tunnels are used for traveling longer distances and for nesting.
Moles use their powerful front paws and sharp claws to dig the tunnels and create a network of interconnected pathways. These tunnels can be a few inches to several feet underground and can span large areas in your yard.
While moles’ underground tunnels can be beneficial to the environment, they can also cause damage to your yard. The tunnels can cause soil to become loose, making it more difficult for plants to root properly. Additionally, the tunnels can compromise the stability of foundations of sheds, patios, and other outdoor structures.
It is crucial to identify moles’ underground tunnels in your yard and take action to mitigate the damage. Trapping and removal can be effective for controlling moles, but it is important to consult professionals or local authorities before attempting to handle moles on your own.
Here is a table summarizing the characteristics of moles’ underground tunnels:
| Type of Tunnel | Purpose | Depth | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shallow Tunnels | Searching for food | A few inches underground | Vary depending on food source availability |
| Deep Tunnels | Traveling longer distances and nesting | Several feet underground | May span large areas in your yard |
Moles Control and Prevention
As much as moles can be fascinating creatures of nature, they can also be a nuisance to gardeners and homeowners. Their destructive feeding habits and tunneling activities can cause unsightly mounds and damage to vegetation. To prevent moles from wreaking havoc in your yard, it is essential to implement effective control and prevention measures. There are numerous options available, from humane trapping and relocation to planting vegetation that these creatures find unappealing. In this section, we’ll explore various ways to control and prevent mole infestations and discuss their effectiveness.
Trapping and Relocation
When considering trapping and relocation as a method of moles control, it’s important to note that some states have regulations or laws regarding the trapping and relocation of wildlife. Before implementing this approach, it’s important to check with local authorities and obtain any necessary permits.
There are various types of traps available for capturing moles, including harpoon, choker, and scissor-jaw traps. Each type of trap has its own benefits and drawbacks, and it’s important to choose the appropriate one for the situation. For example, harpoon traps are better suited for surface tunnels, while scissor-jaw traps are better for deeper tunnels.
Once a mole has been trapped, it’s important to relocate it to an appropriate location at least five miles away from the capture site to prevent its return. Some possible relocation locations include wooded areas, fields, or other areas with suitable habitat.
It’s important to note that trapping and relocation should not be viewed as a long-term solution since it only addresses the symptoms of the problem, not the root cause. If the yard has suitable habitat and food sources, more moles are likely to move in to fill the void left by relocated individuals. It’s essential to implement preventative measures such as vegetation management and grub control to reduce the attractiveness of the yard to moles.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Effective at capturing and removing individual moles | Does not address the root cause of the infestation |
| Can be a humane option if traps are set and checked regularly | Some states have regulations or laws regarding trapping and relocation of wildlife |
| Can be a good short-term solution for controlling moles in small areas | Can be time-consuming to set and check traps |
Deterrents
One way to prevent moles from wreaking havoc in your yard is through the use of deterrents. Here are some options to consider:
- Repellents: There are several types of repellents available on the market, such as castor oil-based products or products that emit unpleasant scents like garlic or mothballs. Keep in mind, however, that the effectiveness of these products varies and they may need to be reapplied regularly.
- Vibration devices: Devices that emit vibrations can be placed in the ground to create a disturbance that moles may avoid. Some models use solar power to operate, making them eco-friendly options.
- Fencing: If you have a small area you want to protect, a barrier fence may be a good option. Make sure the fence extends at least a foot underground, as moles can burrow quite deep.
- Flooding: If you have a relatively small area that’s infested with moles, flooding the tunnels with water may be effective. However, this is not a long-term solution and may require repeated applications as moles can easily dig new tunnels.
Keep in mind that these deterrents are not foolproof and may not work for every situation. It’s best to use them in conjunction with other methods such as trapping or vegetation management.
Vegetation Management
An effective way to prevent moles from tunneling in your yard is by managing your vegetation properly. This includes removing excess thatch and keeping your lawn at a healthy length.
Planting specific types of vegetation can also help deter moles from coming into your yard. Strong-smelling plants such as daffodils, marigolds, and alliums may discourage moles as they dislike their pungent odor. Additionally, certain plants such as castor beans, mole plant, and gopher spurge contain toxins that can repel moles. However, it’s important to note that some of these plants can also be toxic to pets and humans, so use caution when planting them.
It is also recommended to avoid overwatering your lawn or garden, as moles tend to prefer moist soil. Instead, water deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth.
By managing your vegetation properly, you can not only prevent moles from tunneling in your yard but also improve the overall health and appearance of your lawn and garden.
Here is a table summarizing the vegetation management techniques for mole control and prevention:
| Technique | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Thatch Removal | Removing excess thatch from your lawn can prevent moles from tunneling. |
| Lawn Length | Keeping your lawn at a healthy length can discourage moles from tunneling. |
| Planting Strong-smelling Plants | Planting daffodils, marigolds, and alliums can discourage moles due to their pungent odor. |
| Planting Toxin-containing Plants | Planting castor beans, mole plant, and gopher spurge can repel moles due to their toxicity. However, use caution as these plants can be toxic to pets and humans. |
| Water Management | Avoid overwatering your lawn or garden as moles prefer moist soil. Instead, water deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth. |
Professional Intervention
Professional intervention might be necessary if you have tried all other methods of controlling moles with no success. In such cases, it might be time to call in the experts.
Types of Professional Intervention
| Type of Intervention | Description |
|---|---|
| Extermination services | Professional mole exterminators use various methods to get rid of moles in your yard, such as poisons and traps. |
| Natural predators | Some companies use natural predators, such as dogs or hawks trained to hunt moles. |
| Landscaping solutions | Professionals can help to alter your yard’s terrain, such as changing the slope or water flow, to deter moles from returning to your yard. |
Choosing a Professional
When choosing a professional, it’s important to do your research. Look for companies with experience and a good reputation. Check reviews and ask for referrals from friends or family. You should also ask about the methods they use and the potential impact on the environment and surrounding wildlife.
Costs of Professional Intervention
The cost of professional intervention can vary depending on the company you choose and the services you require. However, it’s important to keep in mind that professional intervention can be an investment in the long-term health and appearance of your yard.
Conclusion
In summary, exploring the omnivorous nature of moles has brought light to the fact that while grubs are indeed a primary food source for these fascinating creatures, they also consume a wide variety of other small insects, vegetation, and even small animals. Understanding moles’ behavior, mating habits, and territoriality can help homeowners identify signs of their presence in their yards. By recognizing the tell-tale signs of surface tunnels, molehills, root and bulb damage, and underground tunnels, homeowners can take proactive measures to control and prevent moles from disrupting their lawns and gardens.
Trapping and relocation, deterrents, vegetation management, and professional intervention are all viable options for managing moles in yards. Homeowners who choose to trap and relocate should do so humanely, and should be aware of their state’s regulations regarding live trapping and relocation. Deterrents, such as castor oil-based sprays, can be effective in repelling moles, but may need frequent reapplication. Vegetation management, such as promoting a healthy lawn and garden with proper watering and fertilization, can also help deter moles by reducing the number of grubs and insects in the soil. For severe mole infestations, professional intervention may be necessary.
Ultimately, understanding moles’ omnivorous nature and their role in the ecosystem can help homeowners strike a balance between managing the pests and maintaining a healthy lawn and garden environment. By taking proactive measures to prevent and control mole damage, homeowners can enjoy a beautiful and functional outdoor space while also respecting the importance of moles in the ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do moles visit my yard?
Moles are most commonly attracted to yards in search of food, such as grubs, insects, and small animals.
How do I know if I have moles in my yard?
You can identify moles by the presence of surface tunnels and molehills, as well as root and bulb damage and underground tunnels.
What is the primary food source for moles?
Grubs are often considered the primary food source for moles, but they also eat insects, vegetation, and small animals.
How do moles mate?
Moles mate in the spring, with males and females engaging in a mating dance before copulating underground.
Do moles have any positive impact on my yard?
While moles can help aerate soil and control insect populations, their tunneling can also damage plant roots and create unsightly mounds.
Can I relocate moles to a different area?
Yes, trapping and relocating moles is an option for control, but it should only be done by professionals with proper permits.
How can I prevent moles from entering my yard?
Vegetation management, such as removing dense ground covers or keeping grass short, can deter moles from entering your yard. Additionally, using physical deterrents can be effective.
Are moles harmful to humans?
No, moles are not harmful to humans. While they can carry diseases, they typically do not come into contact with humans and are not a significant health risk.
Can I use repellents to keep moles away?
While there are many mole repellents on the market, their effectiveness is often debated, and they may pose a risk to other wildlife.
Is it necessary to hire a professional to control moles?
While there are many DIY options for controlling moles, hiring a professional can ensure that the job is done safely and effectively.
