Is it a mole or a vole?
Moles feed on earthworms, grubs, and other small creatures in the soil. Their underground digging leaves raised ridges and mounds across the lawn. Although they generally don’t eat plants, their tunnels can disturb roots and dislodge bulbs.
Voles feed primarily on plants, including roots, bulbs, and bark. Their chewing can damage flowers, trees, and shrubs, sometimes before you notice anything happening above ground. Voles may travel through existing mole tunnels, but they can also be present without moles.
Look for these clues:
Raised tunnels or soil mounds: Moles may be digging for food.
Chewed roots, damaged bulbs, or gnawed bark: Voles may be feeding on your plants.
Both types of damage: You may be dealing with both animals.
Make your yard less inviting to voles
Voles prefer places where they can move and feed under cover. Routine garden maintenance can reduce those hiding spots and make damage easier to spot.
Keep grass maintained, remove weeds and accumulated debris from planting beds, and keep dense vegetation away from tree trunks. As you tidy, check for fresh chewing near the soil line and plants that appear loose or begin declining unexpectedly.
Watch for changes and act early
After taking steps to discourage moles or voles, keep an eye out for fresh tunnels and new plant damage. Regular checks will help you see whether your approach is working or needs adjusting.
Need help identifying what’s happening in your yard? Bring photos of the tunnels, damaged plants, and surrounding area to our stores. We’ll help you understand the signs and choose an approach suited to your lawn and garden. To stay inspired and grow with us online, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok to explore more gardening tips and ideas.
