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Moles

The mole is widespread throughout Great Britain.  They have large shovel shaped front limbs which are used for digging, very small eyes and no external ear flaps. Adult moles are solitary and live almost entirely underground in tunnels which can extend over a large area.

They will have two depths of tunnel. The deepest will be between 2-8in or more below the surface. This is when you will see mole hills, which is the excavated soil from the tunnel system. The other type is the surface tunnel which is just below the ground and can be recognised by soil or grass pushed up as a ridge along the length of the run. These are less permanent than the deep tunnels. Nests for sleeping are made from grass and leaves, usually in part of the deep tunnel.

The breeding season is between February and June usually with one litter of between 2-7, but on average 4. These are born in nests similar to the sleeping areas.

Moles feed mostly on earthworms but will also eat insects, larvae etc. They are active for 4-5 hours at a time, and then rest for similar periods. They do not hibernate.

Control

Moles can be controlled by trapping or fumigating by householders; or by professionals who may use gas and poison baits in some situations.
Control is best carried out between October and April when moles tend to be most active and new workings can be seen. Locating the deep runs can be done by probing the ground with a stick. When the run is located the stick will suddenly give and then can be excavated either to trap or fumigate.

Traps must be checked daily!

Traps or fumigants can be bought from garden centres, farm shops and hardware stores.

For more advice please contact the Council by phoning 01993 861060 or use the online service on the right of this page. Alternatively, contact a private pest control contractor, who may provide treatment.

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