Mole Trapping

02.09.2004 - If you have a problem with moles destroying your yard, there is only one way to get rid of the problem - with mole traps.  There is absolutely no effective mole poison, repellent, deterrent, or any device to easily get rid of them.  Except for a trap.  Just set the mole trap on the surface mole tunnels, trap and remove the mole or two in your yard, and you'll have digging no longer.

Unfortunately, mole trapping is not easy.  The traps are not very user friendly.  There are several types of mole traps, from harpoon to scissor (shown above) to underground clamp traps, but all of them are very finicky and require a great deal of experience to set right.  They have to be set in just the right areas in just the right ways, or they won't work.

Moles create a whole network of underground tunnels.  Traps can only be effectively set on the surface tunnels.  Of these surface tunnels, there are winding feeder tunnels that might have only been used one time, never to hold a mole again, and straighter travel tunnels that the moles use more frequently.  You want to set traps on these multi-use travel tunnels.  These tunnels are often straight, and often line up against edges, such as the side of a home or sidewalk.  If in doubt, stamp down a few of the tunnels and see which ones get pushed up again.  The ones that are re-raised are the tunnels you want to trap on.

The traps must be set just right - just the right direction, depth, and sensitivity, right on the tunnels.  And be sure that there's no nosey dogs or cats or children nearby, because these lethal traps can cause injury.

The fact of the matter is that mole trapping is not easy.  It takes a lot of practice and a knowledgeable eye to get right.  If you have a problem with moles in your yard, and you want to take care of it, you're actually best off hiring a professional.

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A mole infestation in your yard is a nightmare! Just seeing your lawn reduce to mounds of dirt can be disheartening and stressful. It can easily ruin your day. Moles are notorious for their digging of tunnel networks. They do this to make their home much more extensive and their food source more accessible.

Moles' diet consists of worms, larvae, beetles, and other small critters that are responsible for fertilizing soil making it ideal for planting. Moles can hinder plant life to reach their maximum growth and they're also to blame in some studies for cases of soil malnutrition.

Though moles are not considered pests, there are times that they become a nuisance to humans. They can make our lives inconvenient! Fortunately, some traps can help you with your mole problem!

Helpful Tips on Trapping Moles

Trapping requires a lot of time and effort especially on your first time. However, it can be rewarding once you catch your first mole! The key to your trapping success is persistence, patience, and practice. Regardless of what nuisance animal you are dealing with, there will always be obstacles and puzzling situations. If you're committed to getting rid of your mole problem, there is absolutely a chance that you will succeed.

Understandably, trying to catch moles using the trapping method can be infuriating at times, especially because moles have such sharp senses to avoid traps but, if it's properly and correctly placed, you'll have the intended result in as soon as one day.

Reinforce your trapping method by installing netting. Also, because mole nests are commonly located in protected spots along hedgerows or fencerows - placing traps in runways entering the yard proves highly effective. Here are 3 types of mole traps:

Choker Loop Traps

This one is easy to set up and it is also the most humane way to trap moles. Choker loop traps are made out of galvanized metal and cast aluminum which prevents the metal from rusting.

Placing it inside their mound or tunnel can kill the mole even without bait. Not only is it effective in getting rid of moles, but it's also safe for children and pets!

Scissor Jawed Traps

This one is also known as “The Out of Sight”. It is one of the most effective traps that you can buy from a store. To set up the trap, first, locate the molehill, then push the closed trap to the center of the tunnel until you reach the base. Lastly, step right down to the lever to trigger your trap. After that, it's time to play the waiting game!

Harpoon Traps

Known for its plunger-like shape, this trap can kill moles inside their tunnels. To use this trap, place it directly above the molehill of the tunnel on the part that is partially blocked by the trigger pan. Make sure that the trigger rests on the blockage then wait for the mole to trigger the trap by reopening the hole.