Mole infestation - Ask Extension
My backyard is over run with moles. I treat for grubs and have not seen any. I’m thinking they are eating my earth worms. What do you suggest?
Knowledgebase
Mole infestation #889337
Asked November 04, 2024, 4:20 PM EST
My backyard is over run with moles. I treat for grubs and have not seen any. I’m thinking they are eating my earth worms. What do you suggest?
Anne Arundel County Maryland
Expert Response
Grubs are only one food source for moles, and earthworms are another possibility. Mole populations tend to fluctuate on their own fairly readily, as many predators eat them, but lethally trapping them would unfortunately probably be the most effective solution in the meantime if they are causing too much damage. We do not recommend using any type of poison bait, even if other resources suggest it. Since moles don't feed on plant roots (voles do), though, their damage is often more cosmetic than detrimental to plants, and so often can be tolerated until they go away if you prefer not to trap them. Information on the additional web pages below goes into more detail:
- Ohio State -- Effective Mole Control
- Penn State -- Moles