Wildlife Damage Management, Internet Center for
Date of this Version
February 1997
Abstract
Effective mole control is often difficult to achieve. Various types of traps, baits, and fumigants have been developed over the years to reduce mole damage to lawns, golf courses, and other areas. Two studies were conducted in the St. Louis, Missouri area to field test products currently registered by the EPA for mole control. Reliable census methods are required to determine efficacy. The best method used was the hole punch method. It consisted of punching 1.9-2.5 cm diameter holes (using a blunt end broom stick) into the top of a mole shallow tunnel. The punched holes were examined 48 hours later. If a live mole remained within the tunnel system, the holes were neatly plugged by the mole with fresh soil.