Everything You Need To Know About Moles In Your Yard
If you've noticed strange mounds of dirt popping up in your yard or soft, raised tunnels crisscrossing your lawn, chances are you have moles. These small burrowing mammals are common in and around Pittsburgh, and while they might seem harmless, they can cause significant damage to your lawn and garden. In this guide, we'll explore what moles look like, their diet, signs of their presence, and how to get rid of them effectively.
What Do Moles Look Like?
Moles are small, burrowing mammals with velvety fur, long snouts, tiny eyes, and large, powerful front paws designed for digging. Nearly blind but with an exceptional sense of smell, moles are about the size of a small potato, typically measuring around 4-8 inches long, depending on the species, and weighing about 4 ounces. Unlike rodents, moles are insectivores, meaning they rely on insects rather than plants for sustenance.
Are Moles Dangerous?
Moles are not dangerous to humans or pets. They do not bite, carry diseases, or invade homes. However, their tunneling habits can create safety hazards in your yard, weaken root structures, and ruin the aesthetic appeal of your lawn, as well as cause:
- Lawn damage: Uprooted grass and uneven terrain make mowing difficult.
- Increased risk of weeds: Damaged and stressed turf is more susceptible to common lawn weeds.
- Increased risk of other pests: Mole tunnels can attract voles and mice, which may start feeding on plant roots.
- Structural issues: If tunnels extend under patios, driveways, or walkways, it could lead to minor settling or cracking over time.
What Do Molehills Look Like?
Molehills are small, volcano-shaped piles of loose soil that moles push to the surface while digging deeper tunnels. They typically range from a few inches to a foot in diameter and can be a few inches tall. The soil in these mounds is fresh, fine, and loosely packed, often appearing darker than the surrounding dirt because it's freshly excavated from underground.
Molehills are most common in soft, damp soil, especially during the spring and fall when moles are most active. You’ll often spot them along garden beds, near walkways, or scattered across your lawn. Unlike the mounds made by gophers, molehills don’t have a visible entry hole in the center—moles seal their tunnels after pushing dirt out.
What Do Moles Eat?
Moles have a voracious appetite and primarily feed on:
- Earthworms
- Grubs
- Insects and larvae
- Other small soil-dwelling creatures
Since their diet consists mainly of underground pests, they can be beneficial in some ways. However, the damage they cause to lawns often outweighs their pest-control benefits.
When Are Moles Active?
Moles are most active during the cooler, wetter months of spring and fall, when the soil is soft and full of earthworms and grubs. During the hot summer months, they tend to dig deeper to escape the heat, and in winter, they burrow below the frost line to stay warm.
As for the time of day, moles don’t follow a strict schedule like some other pests. Instead, they have short bursts of activity every four to six hours, meaning they can be tunneling at any time—day or night. However, they are often busiest early in the morning and late in the evening, making those the best times to check for fresh molehills and tunnels.
Why Are Moles a Problem in Our Region?
The climate and soil conditions in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia make the area ideal for moles. These states have rich, loamy soil that is easy to tunnel through and is filled with earthworms, a mole’s primary food source. Frequent rainfall and moderate temperatures keep the soil moist, attracting both moles and their prey.
Signs of Moles in Your Yard
Moles are notorious for causing damage to lawns across Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas. These underground pests thrive in the region’s soft, moist soil, which makes local yards an ideal habitat. If you suspect moles are wreaking havoc on your property, here are some key signs to look for:
1. Raised Tunnel Ridges
Moles create shallow, raised tunnels as they search for food just below the surface. These tunnels often appear as long, meandering ridges in your lawn, making your yard feel spongy underfoot. This is especially common in the spring and fall, when moles are most active.
2. Molehills (Mounds of Dirt)
Unlike voles or gophers, moles push up small volcano-shaped mounds of dirt as they dig deeper tunnels. If you notice fresh piles of loose soil scattered across your yard, especially after a rainy period, moles are likely tunneling below.
3. Dead or Discolored Grass
Moles don’t eat plant roots, but their constant burrowing can disrupt your lawn’s root system, leading to patches of dead or yellowing grass. If you notice irregular dying spots, particularly near tunnels, moles might be to blame.
4. Increased Weed Growth
Surprisingly, mole activity can encourage weed growth by turning over soil and exposing new weed seeds. If you see an unusual number of weeds sprouting in tunnel areas, moles could be disturbing the soil.
5. Unstable Ground
Because moles create extensive underground networks, areas of your yard may feel soft, uneven, or collapse underfoot. This is particularly noticeable in gardens, flower beds, and mulched areas where soil is loose.
How to Get Rid of Moles in Your Yard
If moles are damaging your property, there are several effective ways to control and remove them, but the effectiveness depends on the method and the severity of the infestation. Here are some options:
1. Use Mole Traps
Professional-grade mole traps are one of the most effective ways to eliminate moles. The two most common types are:
- Scissor traps: Placed in active surface tunnels.
- Harpoon traps: Triggered when a mole moves through its tunnel.
These traps require precise placement along active tunnels and regular monitoring for the best results. Many homeowners opt for professional help to ensure proper setup.
2. Apply Repellents
There are several natural and commercial mole repellents available, including castor oil-based products. These products create an unpleasant environment for moles, making the soil unpleasant to dig through and encouraging them to move elsewhere. These should be applied after heavy rains to maintain effectiveness.
3. Eliminate Their Food Source
Since moles primarily feed on earthworms and grubs, reducing their food supply can help discourage mole activity. Applying grub control treatments can make your yard less attractive to them.
4. Use Barriers and Deterrents
Installing underground barriers, such as wire mesh or garden edging, can prevent moles from entering specific areas. Vibrating stakes and ultrasonic repellents may also help deter them.
5. Seek Professional Pest Control Help
If you have a persistent mole problem, calling a professional lawn care service that specializes in mole removal, like Custom Turf, is the best solution. Local experts can assess the extent of the infestation, use advanced trapping techniques, and offer long-term solutions to prevent future mole issues.
How to Prevent Moles from Returning
Even if you get rid of moles once, if conditions remain favorable (such as ample food supply and loose soil), new moles may move into the area. Regular lawn maintenance and prevention methods can help keep them away.
- Maintain a dry lawn: Overwatering attracts earthworms and other insects, which in turn attract moles.
- Keep up with grub control: Regular lawn treatments can reduce mole food sources.
- Use barriers: Installing underground mesh or barriers around gardens and flower beds can make it harder for moles to dig through.
Protecting Your Lawn from Moles
Moles are a common issue for homeowners throughout Pittsburgh and surrounding areas. By recognizing the signs of moles and taking proactive steps to control them, you can maintain a healthy and attractive lawn. If you're struggling with moles and need expert help, consider reaching out to your local specialists at Custom Turf. Backed by over years of experience, we provide hassle-free service and use organic, family, and pet-friendly mole control products in your yard.
Don't let moles take over your yard—take action today and reclaim your beautiful lawn!