We do not offer pest control services for moles but can offer some guidance on how to deal with them in your garden.
Moles are small, burrowing mammals commonly found across the UK, particularly in grassy or cultivated areas such as gardens, parks, sports fields, and farmland. They are very rarely seen as they spend most of their lives underground.
Although not harmful to humans, moles can cause damage to gardens and crops. Moles create tunnels underground, leading to molehills and disrupted soil which can be considered unsightly to some.
Identifying mole activity
- Molehills
Fresh heaps of soil on the surface are the most obvious sign. These are created when moles push loose soil out of their tunnels. - Raised ridges or runs
In grass turf or soft ground, you may see raised tracks indicating shallow tunnels. - Uneven or collapsed ground
Flowerbeds are more vulnerable to shallow tunnels collapsing and causing ground to become uneven.
Mole behaviours and habits
- Moles are solitary animals and very territorial and will not tolerate other moles within their tunnel system. A single mole can create up to 20 molehills a day while extending its tunnels.
- They are most active during the early morning and late evening with increased activity during Spring and Autumn.
- During colder months, moles dig deeper into the soil where it is warmer and where food sources, like earthworms, are still available.
- Moles have poor eyesight but compensate with excellent hearing and sensitivity to ground vibrations.
Do moles pose a health risk?
Moles do not pose any direct health risk to humans or pets. They are not known carriers of diseases and do not typically come into contact with people. Their presence is almost exclusively noticed through their underground tunnelling and the resulting molehills.
While their activity may be disruptive to gardens or crops, the most significant risk moles present is a physical tripping hazard. Molehills can cause uneven ground which may pose a minor risk of injury in areas with walking routes.
It is important to remember that moles are shy, reclusive animals that are simply following natural behaviours. Their impact is largely cosmetic or agricultural rather than a public health concern. In most domestic settings, they can be managed humanely without the need for aggressive or harmful control measures.
Dealing with moles
While moles can be controlled, it is important to do so humanely and within the law. It is illegal to cause unnecessary suffering to wild animals. Avoid using poisons and unapproved deterrents.
- Specialists
We recommend that you contact a specialist mole catcher or wildlife management professional. These personnel will be trained in humane and legal mole control practices and can assess the scale of the problem more effectively. - Repellents
There are several repellents advertised as working to deter moles, but their effectiveness is unclear. They may also need repeat applications, particularly after rain. - Non-lethal deterrents
Options such as planting strong-scented plants, such as marigolds, or using sonic stakes may discourage moles from settling in an area, though success rates may vary. - Monitor
In some cases, especially when only 1 or 2 molehills are present, it may be practical to wait. Moles may move on naturally if the habitat becomes unsuitable or food sources are reduced.
Before undertaking any control measures, it is wise to assess the level of disruption and weigh it against the effort or harm involved. Moles play a beneficial role in soil aeration and insect control, so where possible, non-lethal solutions are preferable.
