Moles can wreak havoc on your garden, leaving behind a trail of unsightly tunnels and damaged plants. If you’re tired of dealing with mole infestations, it’s time to take action. In this blog post, we will explore effective methods for trapping moles in your garden. By understanding mole behavior and implementing the right techniques, you can regain control of your garden and protect it from further mole damage.
Understanding Mole Behavior
To effectively trap moles, it’s essential to understand their behavior. Moles are subterranean mammals that create intricate tunnel networks while foraging for food. We’ll delve into their feeding habits, preferred habitats, and how they navigate through the soil. By gaining insights into mole behavior, you’ll be better equipped to select the appropriate trapping methods.
Identifying Mole Activity
Recognizing signs of mole activity is crucial for successful trapping. We’ll discuss common indicators such as molehills, surface runways, and the appearance of raised ridges or tunnels in your garden. Identifying these signs will help you pinpoint active mole areas and determine the best trap placement.
Effective Trapping Methods
There are various trapping methods available to capture moles effectively. We’ll explore two popular techniques:
- Scissor Traps: Scissor traps are designed to catch moles as they travel through their tunnels. We’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to set up and position scissor traps effectively, increasing your chances of trapping moles successfully
- Harpoon Traps: Harpoon traps work by impaling moles when they trigger the trap mechanism. We’ll guide you through the process of placing and setting up harpoon traps in mole runways, maximizing your trapping efficiency.
Tips for Successful Mole Trapping
We’ll share additional tips and best practices to enhance your mole trapping success rate:
Proper Trap Placement
The first step in trapping moles is identifying active tunnels. Moles create two types of tunnels: surface tunnels and deep tunnels. Surface tunnels are just below the surface and appear as raised ridges running across your lawn. Deep tunnels are used as the mole’s main highway and are usually about 10 inches below the surface. To identify active tunnels, flatten a small section of the tunnel and check if it’s raised again the next day. Once you’ve identified an active tunnel, that’s where you’ll want to place your trap.
Ensuring Traps Are secure and discreet
Moles are sensitive to disturbances and can be scared off by poorly set traps. When setting your trap, make sure it fits snugly into the tunnel without collapsing it. The trigger should be placed in the center of the tunnel where the mole is likely to pass. Cover the trap with a piece of turf or cardboard to keep light out of the tunnel, as this can also deter moles. Remember to wear gloves when handling the trap to prevent your scent from deterring the moles.
Check Traps Regularly
Regularly checking your traps is crucial for successful mole trapping. Check your traps every day, preferably in the morning. If you haven’t caught a mole within 48 hours, consider moving the trap to a different location. Moles have extensive tunnel systems and may not pass through the same tunnel every day. If a trap is sprung but no mole is caught, it may be a sign that the trap is not set correctly or the mole has dug around it.
Removing Trapped Moles Safely
Once a mole is trapped, it’s important to remove it safely and humanely. Wear gloves to protect yourself from potential diseases. If the mole is still alive, handle it gently to avoid causing unnecessary stress. If you plan to release the mole, choose a location at least 5 miles away from your home to prevent it from returning. If the mole is dead, it can be buried or disposed of in a sealed plastic bag. Always check local regulations regarding the disposal of trapped animals.
Don't Go It Alone
If you have a mole infestation and nothing seems to be helping, let the professionals take care of the issue. Contact Got Gophers today to get a free consultation and estimate today!