Wisconsin residents may be familiar with the sight of moles burrowing through their yards and gardens. Moles can cause a lot of damage to plants, landscaping, and even foundations. Fortunately, there are some steps that Wisconsin residents can take to prevent moles from making their home on their property. In this article, we’ll discuss how to keep moles away from homes in Wisconsin.
What Are Moles in Wisconsin?
Moles are subterranean rodents found in Wisconsin and other parts of the United States. They are small, burrowing mammals that feed on insects, earthworms, and other small invertebrates. Moles have a specialized diet which consists mainly of earthworms and other underground invertebrates. In Wisconsin, there are two species of moles, the Eastern Mole (Scalopus aquaticus) and the Star-nosed Mole (Condylura cristata).
Moles are small and black or dark brown in color with short, velvety fur. They have an enlarged, curved snout with a unique star-shaped nose and small eyes. They have an enlarged, muscular front paw with long, curved claws used for digging and tunneling. Moles dig complex burrows which consist of several tunnels and chambers that are used for nesting, storing food, and raising young.
Moles are found in a variety of habitats throughout Wisconsin, including grassy meadows, woodlands, wetlands, and agricultural areas. They prefer moist, well-drained soils and are mostly active at night. They can cause damage to lawns, gardens, and crops by digging tunnels and burrowing through the soil.
Moles are beneficial to the environment as they help to aerate and fertilize soils and they also help to control insect populations. The presence of moles in Wisconsin is a sign of a healthy and diverse ecosystem.
What Damage Can Moles Cause in Wisconsin?
Moles can cause extensive damage to lawns, gardens, and landscapes in Wisconsin. Their burrowing habits can lead to tunneling beneath the surface that can damage the structure of the soil and disrupt plant roots, making it difficult for grass and plants to grow. Moles can also create mounds of soil, known as “molehills,” that can create an uneven surface, making it difficult to mow and maintain a healthy lawn. Additionally, their tunnels can disrupt the underground water flow, leading to dry patches, and can also create pathways for other pests like voles and gophers, which can further damage gardens and lawns.
How Can Wisconsin Residents Identify Moles?
Moles are small mammals with furry bodies and velvety fur, typically black or dark brown in color. They have short, stout legs and long claws for digging. In Wisconsin, moles are common and can be found in yards, gardens, and fields.
Appearance: Moles are typically 5-7 inches in length and have a pointed snout, small eyes and ears, and a short tail.
Behavior: Moles are solitary animals that spend most of their time underground, digging extensive tunnel systems. They feed on insects, earthworms, and other small invertebrates.
Tracks: Moles leave behind a series of raised ridges in the soil, called molehills, which are a telltale sign of their presence.
Damage: Moles can cause damage to lawns and gardens by uprooting plants and disturbing root systems.
Signs: Wisconsin residents can also identify moles by looking for other signs such as tunnel entrances, mounds of soil, and feeding tunnels.
| Signs | Description |
|---|---|
| Molehills | Raised ridges in soil |
| Tunnel entrances | Small openings in the ground |
| Mounds of soil | Small piles of soil pushed up from underground |
| Feeding tunnels | Shallow, winding tunnels in the ground |
What Are the Most Effective Ways to Keep Moles Away from Wisconsin Homes?
Exclusion
Moles can be excluded from Wisconsin homes by installing underground fences around the perimeter of yards. The fences should be buried at least 8 inches deep and be several inches above the ground. This will prevent the moles from entering the yard and disrupting the soil.
Repellents
Using repellents such as castor oil, garlic, or commercial products can scare moles away from Wisconsin homes. These products can be applied to the yard or used as traps to catch moles.
Baits
Baiting moles can be effective in getting rid of them in Wisconsin homes. Place baits such as fruits, vegetables, or grains in the tunnels and around the perimeter of the yard. The baits should be placed in areas where they are not accessible to other animals or people.
Traps
Traps can be used to catch moles in Wisconsin homes. The traps should be placed in the tunnels and left open for several days to allow the moles to enter. Once the trap has been triggered, the mole can be removed from the yard.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Each Method?
- Trapping – Trapping is a common method to remove moles in Wisconsin. Pros include being able to assess the damage and remove the mole quickly. Cons include the need for regular monitoring of the traps to ensure the mole is not caught by other animals or pets.
- Poison Baiting – Poison baiting is a popular method as it eliminates the need for regular monitoring. Pros include the ability to remove multiple moles with one bait. Cons include the possibility of secondary poisoning of other animals and pets.
- Fumigation – Fumigation is a more drastic measure that is typically employed when other methods are ineffective. Pros include the ability to quickly eradicate the mole population. Cons include the need for special equipment and the potential for the fumes to be toxic to humans and pets.
- Cultural Control – Cultural control is a preventative measure that can be used to reduce the chances of moles settling in an area. Pros include the ability to reduce the chances of moles arriving in the future. Cons include the need for ongoing maintenance and the possibility of moles finding alternate routes to the area.
What Can Wisconsin Residents Do to Prevent Moles from Entering Their Property?
- Trim Overgrown Vegetation – Moles prefer to live in areas with lush vegetation. Trimming back overgrown vegetation and keeping your lawn mowed can make your property less desirable for moles.
- Install Fencing – Installing a fence around your property can help to keep moles out. Make sure to use fencing that is deep enough to reach at least two feet below ground level.
- Remove Potential Food Sources – Moles feed on earthworms and grubs, so removing potential food sources can help to deter them. Keep your lawn free of excess moisture and compost piles, and use insecticides to reduce the population of grubs.
- Install Sonic Repellents – Sonic repellents are devices that emit a sound frequency that is unpleasant to moles. These devices can be effective when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Eliminate Access Points – Moles can gain access to your property through small holes or cracks in foundation walls and other areas. Seal any potential entry points with caulk or other materials.
What Are Some Common Traps and Repellents for Moles in Wisconsin?
Traps:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Scissor Traps | Scissor traps are a common mole trap that is easy to set up and use. They are designed to be placed into mole tunnels, and when triggered, the scissor-like mechanism snaps shut and kills the mole. |
| Harpoon Traps | Harpoon traps are another popular mole trap that is designed to be placed in the mole’s tunnels. When triggered, the harpoon-like mechanism impales the mole, killing it instantly. |
| Choker Loop Traps | Choker loop traps are designed to be placed in the tunnels and the loop tightened around the mole’s neck, killing it by strangulation. |
Repellents:
Mole repellents are a viable option for controlling moles in Wisconsin. Repellents are designed to repel moles away from the property by using a combination of sound, smell and taste. Common repellent ingredients include castor oil, garlic, peppermint and ammonia. These repellents are most effective when used in tandem with other control methods.
Are There Any Natural Remedies for Controlling Moles in Wisconsin?
Moles are a common problem in Wisconsin, with many homeowners struggling to keep them away from their lawns and gardens. While there are a variety of chemical treatments available to treat moles, some people are looking for more natural alternatives for controlling moles in Wisconsin.
Here are some natural remedies for controlling moles in Wisconsin:
- Mole traps – Mole traps are designed to capture moles and remove them from your property. They can be purchased from most garden stores and online retailers.
- Castor oil – Castor oil can be applied to affected areas of your lawn to repel moles. It is best to apply it in early spring, when moles are starting to become active.
- Garlic – Garlic cloves can be spread throughout your lawn to ward off moles. The strong smell of garlic can be too much for moles, driving them away.
- Cayenne pepper – Cayenne pepper can be used in the same way as garlic. Sprinkle it around your lawn to create a barrier that moles will not want to cross.
- Grits – Place a few spoonfuls of uncooked grits around your lawn. Moles will eat the grits, which will expand in their stomachs and kill them.
While these natural remedies can be effective in controlling moles in Wisconsin, it is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Different methods may work better for different people, so it is important to experiment with different remedies until you find the one that works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some preventative measures that Wisconsin residents can take to deter moles from their property?
Eliminate food sources: Moles feed on grubs and other insects, so removing their food sources can help deter them from your property. This can be done by maintaining a healthy lawn, keeping it irrigated and aerated, and treating it for grubs.
Use repellents: There are several types of repellents available, including castor oil-based repellents and ultrasonic devices.
Install a physical barrier: Installing a physical barrier such as metal mesh or plastic sheeting around the perimeter of your yard can help to keep moles out.
Eliminate shelter: Moles are attracted to sheltered areas, so removing any debris or overgrown vegetation can help deter them.
Are There Any Natural Methods to Repel Moles From One’s Yard?
Moles can be a nuisance in Wisconsin yards, but there are methods to repel them. Natural methods include encouraging predators of moles such as snakes and owls, trapping, and using deterrents such as castor oil, garlic, and cayenne pepper. Additionally, disturbing the soil near mole tunnels and ensuring the soil is not too moist can help deter moles from the yard.
Are there any commercially available products that can help to keep moles away?
Commercially available products designed to deter moles from entering yards are available for purchase. These products often involve the use of sonic or electromagnetic devices that emit vibrations or sound waves to repel moles. Additionally, certain repellent sprays and granular repellents containing castor oil may be effective in keeping moles away. However, effectiveness of these products may vary.
Is it Safe to Use Poisons to Eliminate Moles from One’s Property?
Using poisons to eliminate moles from your property can be dangerous and should be done with caution. Poisons may not only be hazardous to the moles, but also to other animals, pets, and even humans if ingested. Additionally, the use of poisons may be illegal in some areas, so it is important to check local laws before attempting to use them. To be safe, it is best to use non-toxic traps and repellents to control moles.
Are Moles Found Mainly in Certain Areas of Wisconsin or are They Present Throughout the State?
Moles are found throughout Wisconsin, though they are most commonly seen in grassy and open areas. They are also common in woodlands and wetlands, and can sometimes be found in meadows and gardens. Moles are found in all 72 counties of Wisconsin, but their populations may vary based on the type of habitat present. In addition, moles in Wisconsin may be more active during certain times of year.
Conclusion
Wisconsin residents can keep moles away from their homes by making the environment unappealing to them, using repellents, trapping, and eliminating food sources. However, the best way to prevent moles from coming in the first place is to keep the lawn and garden well maintained.
