Have you ever walked across your perfectly manicured lawn only to feel the ground give way beneath your feet? The culprit is likely a pesky mole tunneling under the surface. Moles can wreak havoc on a lawn, leaving unsightly raised tunnels and uprooted plants in their wake. While there are many methods for tackling mole infestations, plunger-type mole traps remain a popular choice due to their effectiveness, affordability, and ease of use. However, as with any pest control method, there are also limitations and safety concerns to consider. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of using plunger-type mole traps, as well as alternatives for getting rid of these troublesome critters.
Advantages of Plunger-Type Mole Traps
Plunger-Type Mole Traps are an effective option for getting rid of moles in your lawn or garden. These traps have several advantages that set them apart from other types of mole traps, making them a popular choice among homeowners. If you are considering purchasing a mole trap, it is important to know what makes the plunger-type trap stand out. In this section, we will explore the benefits of using a plunger-type mole trap and why it might be the right choice for you. Before we dive into the advantages, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the different types of mole traps available on the market. You can learn more about these traps by checking out our article on Types of Mole Traps.
Effective
Plunger-type mole traps are highly effective in getting rid of moles in your yard. Unlike other types of traps such as scissor-style, choker loops, or harpoon-style mole traps, plunger-type mole traps apply constant pressure to the mole tunnel that collapses when activated, thus trapping the mole inside.
When properly set, plunger-type mole traps can be an efficient means of trapping and eliminating the damage caused by moles in your yard. Many satisfied users have reported trapping multiple moles in a short period of time, making them an ideal choice for those who need to quickly remove a mole infestation.
Plunger-type mole traps are designed to do little harm to the actual mole. The mole is killed instantly when the trap is triggered, minimizing the suffering of the animal. This makes plunger-type mole traps more humane than other mole trapping methods that could potentially cause the animal to suffer needlessly.
However, it is important to note that the overall effectiveness of plunger-type mole traps may vary depending on several factors that affect the behavior of the mole, such as soil moisture, weather conditions, and the type of soil. Even though it is an effective mole trapping method, it may not work for every situation.
If you’re unsure which type of mole trap would work best for you, you can use our mole trap chooser tool to help you determine which trap is ideal for your specific mole problem.
Affordable
Plunger-type mole traps are an affordable option for controlling mole infestations in your yard. Unlike other methods that can be costly, these traps can be purchased at a reasonable price and can be reused for multiple captures.
Table: Comparison of Costs for Mole Control Methods
| Method | Cost | Reusable |
|---|---|---|
| Plunger-Type Mole Trap | Approximately $20 | Yes |
| Mole Bait | Approximately $18 for 1 pound | No |
| Professional Mole Control | Approximately $100-$300 per treatment | No |
As shown in the table above, plunger-type mole traps are more affordable than other methods such as hiring a professional or using mole bait. Additionally, plunger-type mole traps are reusable, which can save you money in the long run.
However, it is important to note that while plunger-type mole traps may be a more affordable option, they do require some skill in order to effectively use them. If used improperly, they may not be as effective or can potentially harm the user or other animals. It is important to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
If you are unsure about using a plunger-type mole trap, there are other alternatives such as choker loops or harpoon-style mole traps that may be easier to use. You can read more about these alternatives in our article about Choker Loops vs Harpoon-Style Mole Traps.
If you are looking for an affordable and reusable option for controlling mole infestations in your yard, plunger-type mole traps can be a good choice. Just be sure to read the instructions carefully and use caution when setting and maintaining these traps. You can learn more about how to use plunger-type mole traps in our article about How to Set and Use a Tunnel Mole Trap.
Easy to Use
Plunger-type mole traps are easy to use, even for those who are not experienced in pest control. They do not require any complicated setting up or assembly. All you have to do is place them in the active mole tunnels and wait for the trap to do its job.
Additionally, since plunger-type mole traps are usually made from durable materials, they can be used again and again, making them a cost-effective and convenient pest control solution.
To make using plunger-type mole traps even easier, consider following these steps:
- Identify active mole tunnels in your yard.
- Set the trap by properly placing it according to instructions.
- Maintain the trap regularly to ensure it stays effective.
By following these simple steps, you can make the most of your plunger-type mole trap and keep your yard free from pesky moles. However, it’s important to remember that while these traps are easy to use, they still require some precaution and care, as they can be dangerous if not handled properly.Scissor-type mole traps may also be an alternative to consider, depending on the situation.
Re-Usable
One of the advantages of plunger-type mole traps is that they are re-usable, which means they can be used more than once. This feature not only saves money but also makes the traps more practical.
Unlike other types of mole traps that are one-time use only, plunger-type traps can be used multiple times, making them an investment that will last the homeowner for several years. They are durable, and if maintained properly, can be used for a long time.
The plunger mechanism of the traps is easy to reset, and homeowners can use the same trap multiple times over several days to catch other moles in the area. This is an excellent benefit because moles often live in groups, so it is likely that there will be more than one mole in a particular area.
To better illustrate the benefits of the re-usability of plunger-type mole traps, the following table provides a comparison between plunger traps and other types of mole traps:
| Trap Type | Re-Usable? | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Plunger-Type Mole Traps | Yes | Low |
| Baited Traps | No | Low |
| Explosives | No | High |
| Poison Baits | No | Low |
| Mechanical Traps | No | Low |
From the table, it can be seen that plunger-type mole traps are not only re-usable but are also cost-effective when compared to other types of traps. Moles are persistent pests, and the ability to use the same trap over and over again is not only a good investment but also a smart choice for homeowners looking to control their mole population.
Limitations of Plunger-Type Mole Traps
While plunger-type mole traps are a popular and effective solution to control mole infestations, they also have their shortcomings that must be considered before use. It is important to take note of the limitations and potential hazards associated with these traps to ensure safe and effective use. By understanding the limitations and risks, homeowners can make informed decisions when it comes to controlling mole populations on their property. Let’s take a closer look at some of the limitations of using plunger-type mole traps.
Requires Some Skill
Using a plunger-type mole trap requires some skill to set it properly. It is important to identify active mole tunnels and place the trap at the correct location without damaging the trap or the surrounding area. If the trap is not set correctly, the mole may avoid it and continue digging elsewhere.
Another skill needed is to be able to identify different mole species, as the depth and size of tunnels can vary between species. This information is important as it will help determine where to place the trap.
Additionally, maintaining the trap is crucial. If it is not checked regularly, it may need to be reset or repositioned. It may take some practice to become proficient at setting and maintaining the trap, but with experience, it gets easier.
It is highly recommended to read the manufacturer’s instructions before using a plunger-type mole trap. Some traps may have specific requirements for setting or maintenance.
| Skills Needed for Plunger-Type Mole Traps |
|---|
| Ability to identify active mole tunnels |
| Understanding of different mole species and their tunneling patterns |
| Able to properly set and maintain the trap |
| Following the manufacturer’s instructions |
Using a plunger-type mole trap requires some knowledge and practice. However, once the proper skills are developed, it can be an effective and affordable method for controlling a mole infestation.
Can be Dangerous
While plunger-type mole traps are generally safe and easy to use, there are still some potential dangers associated with them.
One of the main risks of using these traps is that they can cause injury to the person setting them. According to a study published in the Journal of Agromedicine, the most common injury associated with mole traps is a hand injury, usually caused by the trap springing shut unexpectedly. This can result in broken bones, lacerations, and other types of harm.
It’s important to exercise caution when setting and maintaining these traps to prevent injury. Wearing gloves is recommended to protect your hands from the sharp edges of the trap. Additionally, it’s important to read the instructions carefully and follow all safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
Another danger associated with plunger-type mole traps is the risk of unintentionally harming other animals. While these traps are designed to target moles specifically, they may also catch and injure other animals such as shrews or voles.
To minimize this risk, it’s important to set the trap in an area where the likelihood of catching unintended animals is low. Additionally, it’s important to check the trap regularly to ensure that it has not caught any unintended animals. If an unintended animal is caught, it should be released immediately and safely.
While plunger-type mole traps are an effective and affordable option for controlling moles, they do come with some potential risks. It’s important to take precautions to minimize the risk of injury or unintended harm to other animals when using these traps.
| Risks | Preventions |
| Injury to person setting trap | Read instructions carefully, wear gloves, exercise caution |
| Unintentional harm to other animals | Set trap in low-risk area, check trap regularly to release unintended animals safely |
May not Work for Every Situation
May not Work for Every Situation
While plunger-type mole traps can be an effective solution for most homeowners dealing with moles in their yard, it’s important to note that they may not work for every situation. In some cases, the location of the mole tunnel may make it difficult to set the trap properly. Additionally, some moles may be too cautious to be caught in a trap, especially if they have encountered a trap before.
In situations where plunger-type mole traps may not be effective, homeowners may need to consider alternative solutions such as mole bait or professional mole control services. It’s also worth noting that some homeowners may simply be dealing with a larger population of moles than anticipated, which can make trapping them all with plunger-type mole traps a time-consuming and potentially futile task.
Here’s a table summarizing the limitations of plunger-type mole traps:
| Limitations of Plunger-Type Mole Traps |
|---|
| May not work in every situation |
| Requires some skill to properly set the trap |
| Can be dangerous if not handled properly |
| May only be effective for small populations of moles |
It’s important for homeowners to weigh the benefits and limitations of plunger-type mole traps before deciding if they are the right solution for their mole problem. If unsure, it may be best to consult with a professional mole control service to help identify the best approach for their specific situation.
How to Use a Plunger-Type Mole Trap
So, you have decided to tackle your mole problem and have chosen a plunger-type mole trap as your weapon of choice. But now you may be wondering, how do you actually use it? Don’t worry, it’s not as daunting as it may seem. In this section, we will guide you through the steps of successfully setting up and maintaining a plunger-type mole trap. By the end, you will be confident in using this simple yet effective method to rid your property of those pesky moles.
Identify Active Mole Tunnels
Identifying active mole tunnels is an essential step in using a plunger-type mole trap effectively. You can identify active mole tunnels in your garden by looking for raised ridges or mounds of soil that follow a straight path. It’s essential to differentiate active tunnels from inactive ones because placing the mole trap in an inactive tunnel will not give the desired results.
Here are some tips for identifying active mole tunnels:
| Look for Straight Ridges | Look for Fresh Soil Mounds | Check the Tunnels Regularly |
|---|---|---|
| Active mole tunnels often follow a straight line and are more extended than inactive ones. Look for mole activity in areas where soil is softer or damp. | Check your yard for fresh soil mounds, which signal the presence of moles. The mounds can be up to a foot in diameter and can cover the entrance of an active tunnel. | Check the mole traps regularly to see if there is any activity. If you have not caught a mole within the first few days, move the trap to a different location. |
If you’re unsure whether a tunnel is active or not, you can step on it lightly to close the tunnel entrance. Come back a day or two later and check whether the soil has been moved, indicating that the mole has reopened the tunnel.
Identifying active mole tunnels is crucial to effectively using a plunger-type mole trap. Take the time to locate and monitor the tunnels, and you’ll increase your chances of catching the mole.
Set the Trap
Setting a plunger-type mole trap requires some attention to detail in order to ensure that the trap is both safe and effective. Here are the steps to follow:
- Identify the active mole tunnels: Before setting the trap, it’s important to identify where the moles are active. This can be done by stepping on the soil and checking for raised ridges that indicate tunnels. You can also use a garden fork or small trowel to dig into the soil and locate tunnels.
- Remove any debris: Once you’ve identified the active tunnels, remove any debris or dirt so that the trap can be set properly.
- Set the platform: Place the trap on the soil, making sure the plunger is in the up position. Place the platform over the plunger and ensure it is level.
- Place the bait: Put some bait in the bait holder, which is located in the center of the platform. Place the cover over the bait holder.
- Set the plunger: Carefully push down on the plunger until it clicks into place. Make sure that the plunger stays down and doesn’t pop back up, as this will render the trap ineffective.
- Cover the trap: Place the soil you removed earlier over the trap and gently tamp it down, making sure not to disturb the trap. Covering the trap will help prevent it from being triggered by anything other than a mole.
Remember to check the trap regularly to see if it has been triggered, and to replace the bait if it has been removed. Be extremely cautious when handling the trap, as the plunger can be dangerous if it snaps back up unexpectedly. Following these steps will help ensure that your plunger-type mole trap is set up correctly and ready to catch any pesky moles that may be wreaking havoc in your yard.
Maintain the Trap
Once the plunger-type mole trap has been set, it is important to properly maintain it to ensure its effectiveness. Here are some tips for maintaining the trap:
- Monitor the trap: Check the trap daily to see if it has been triggered. If it has, remove the mole and reset the trap. If it hasn’t, re-bait and reset the trap. This will increase the chances of catching a mole and reduce the risk of the trap becoming ineffective due to old bait or debris.
- Keep the trap clean: Clean the trap after each use to prevent the buildup of dirt, debris, and other materials that may interfere with its ability to function properly. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any remaining soil or debris from the trap once it has been triggered.
- Replace damaged parts: Carefully inspect the trap for damaged or worn out parts that may affect its ability to function. If you notice any damage or wear, replace the parts immediately.
- Proper storage: When not in use, store the trap in a dry, secure location that is not accessible to children, pets or wildlife.
By following these tips and consistently maintaining your plunger-type mole trap, you should be able to effectively control moles in your yard or garden.
Alternatives to Plunger-Type Mole Traps
If plunger-type mole traps are not your preferred method for controlling mole infestations, there are other alternatives available. These alternatives may be preferred for reasons such as personal safety concerns or the desire for a more hands-off approach to controlling moles. In this section, we will explore some of the popular alternatives to plunger-type mole traps, including mole bait and professional mole control.
Mole Bait
Another option for mole control is using mole bait. This method involves placing a type of food or poison in the mole tunnel system which the mole will consume and die. Some of the benefits of using mole bait include:
- Low effort: Using mole bait is an incredibly simple and easy method to implement when compared to other solutions.
- Large-scale application: Mole bait can be placed in several active tunnels at once, allowing for swift dealing with a significant mole problem.
- Effective: Mole bait is known to be an effective solution as the mole will consume it and eventually die.
However, there are also some limitations to using mole bait as a form of mole control. These include:
- Potential for harm: While the mole may seem harmless, it may have predators that feed on moles. If these predators consume a poisoned mole, they may also be harmed or die. Additionally, if a homeowner has pets, the bait can be consumed by them as well, leading to consequences.
- Slow pace: Using mole bait is not always an instant solution, as the mole may not consume the bait immediately, or at all, depending on the mole’s feeding habits and diet.
- Cost: Compared to using traps, using mole bait can be expensive as the homeowner needs to continually purchase the bait for a more extended period, and this can accumulate more quickly than expected.
So, unlike plunger-type mole traps, using mole bait is less labor-intensive and can deal with a mole problem on a larger scale, but with notable limitations, such as the time required for the mole to eat and die from the bait and the potential for harm to humans and animals in the mole’s environment.
Professional Mole Control
One alternative to using plunger-type mole traps is to call in professionals for mole control. Professional mole control services can be effective in eliminating a mole infestation. Here are some advantages to consider:
- Expertise: Professional mole control experts have the knowledge and experience to accurately assess the extent of the infestation and determine the best approach for eliminating the moles. They also have access to professional-grade equipment that may not be available to homeowners.
- Efficiency: Professional mole control companies have the resources and manpower to quickly and efficiently take care of a mole problem, often in just one or two visits.
- Guarantee: Many professional mole control companies offer guarantees on their work, meaning that if the moles return within a certain period of time, they will come back and re-treat the area for free.
However, it’s important to note that there are also some limitations to using professional mole control:
- Cost: Professional mole control services can be expensive, especially compared to using plunger-type mole traps.
- Chemicals: Some professional mole control services may use chemical treatments to eliminate moles, which may not be suitable for those with pets or small children.
- Environmental Impact: Chemical treatments used by professional mole control services may also have negative effects on the environment or harm other animals in the area.
Overall, professional mole control can be an effective solution for those who want to eliminate a mole infestation quickly and efficiently, but it may not be the best choice for everyone. It’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages and choose a solution that works best for your situation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, plunger-type mole traps can be an effective and affordable option for controlling mole infestations. They are easy to use and can be re-used multiple times, making them a practical choice for homeowners. However, it is important to note that using these traps does require some skill and can be dangerous if not used properly. Additionally, there may be situations where plunger-type mole traps do not work as well as other methods.
If you decide to use plunger-type mole traps, be sure to identify active mole tunnels and follow the proper steps for setting and maintaining the trap. It is also important to consider alternative options, such as mole bait or professional mole control, to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
Ultimately, the success of mole control relies on a combination of knowledge, skill, and the proper use of tools and techniques. By being informed and taking action, you can reduce the damage caused by mole infestations and maintain a healthy and attractive lawn or garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a plunger-type mole trap?
A plunger-type mole trap is a device used to control mole populations by trapping them in their tunnels.
How effective are plunger-type mole traps?
Plunger-type mole traps can be very effective when used properly in areas with high mole activity.
Are plunger-type mole traps affordable?
Yes, plunger-type mole traps are an affordable option for DIY mole control.
Can anyone use a plunger-type mole trap?
While most people can use plunger-type mole traps, some skill and knowledge is required for proper installation and safety.
Can plunger-type mole traps be dangerous?
Yes, plunger-type mole traps can be dangerous if mishandled. Always follow safety instructions and use caution when setting and disarming the trap.
Can plunger-type mole traps work in every situation?
No, plunger-type mole traps may not be effective in all situations, such as areas with very shallow or very deep tunnels, or areas with hard soil or rocky terrain.
How do I identify active mole tunnels?
Active mole tunnels can be identified by the fresh mound of soil that appears on the surface, indicating recent mole activity.
How do I set a plunger-type mole trap?
To set a plunger-type mole trap, you must first locate an active mole tunnel and then insert the trap into the tunnel so that the plunger is perpendicular to the tunnel.
How do I maintain a plunger-type mole trap?
You should check your plunger-type mole trap regularly for captured moles and reset the trap as necessary. Replace any worn or damaged parts to ensure optimal performance.
Are there alternatives to plunger-type mole traps?
Yes, alternatives to plunger-type mole traps include mole bait and professional mole control services.
