Are you tired of battling moles in your garden or lawn? These pesky creatures can cause significant damage to your plants and disrupt the natural balance of your outdoor space.
In this article, we’ll delve into mole control and explore the pros and cons of using mothballs versus hiring an exterminator. We’ll start by examining mole behavior and characteristics, followed by an analysis of mothballs as a mole repellent and their limitations.
We’ll then explore various mole removal methods, including traps, poisonous bait, and repellents, before delving into the benefits of professional extermination services. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of the most effective ways to wage war against moles and achieve the freedom from pest intrusion you desire.
Key Takeaways
- Moles can be a common problem in gardens and can cause extensive damage by tunneling underground.
- Mothballs are not very effective in getting rid of moles and can be harmful to humans if inhaled accidentally.
- Traps, poisonous bait, and repellents are some of the methods used to remove moles, but professional exterminators like Orkin, Terminix, and Aptive can provide more effective solutions.
Mole Behavior and Characteristics
You may already know that moles spend the majority of their time underground, but did you know that they’re not blind? They can see, despite common misconceptions. They have medium-sized snouts that they use to find food.
Moles tend to be hairless, and they don’t normally eat plants from a human garden, but they can cause extensive damage by tunneling under the roots and causing collapse. These characteristics make moles a common spring and summer menace for gardeners.
They eat worms, grubs, and insects, but they can also eat beneficial bugs like earthworms, which can throw the natural balance of a garden out of whack. This is why it’s important to take action to get rid of moles if they’re causing damage to your garden or lawn.
Mothballs as a Mole Repellent
While mothballs are commonly suggested as a way to get rid of these pesky rodents, they’re not very effective in the long run.
Mothballs are used to ward off moths in closets and wardrobes; they are not very effective in getting rid of moles. They could work as a decent mole repellent but will not completely remove the mole problem
Naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene are the most common ingredients in mothballs, and while they may work as a decent mole repellent, they won’t completely remove the mole problem.
If the naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene in mothballs is inhaled accidentally, it can be detrimental. These chemicals release gas over time and could cause health problems for humans.
Professional Exterminators to Get Rid of Moles
Consider hiring a professional pest control service to effectively eliminate moles from your yard and prevent further damage to your garden. While DIY methods such as traps and repellents can be effective, they may not completely solve the problem and can be time-consuming.
Professional exterminators have the knowledge, expertise, and equipment to quickly and efficiently remove moles from your property.
Orkin, Terminix, and Aptive are reputable pest control companies that offer mole removal services.
Their trained professionals use a variety of methods, including traps, baits, and chemically treated solutions, to effectively eliminate moles from your yard.
By hiring a professional exterminator, you can save time and money in the long run by preventing further damage to your garden and avoiding the frustration of ineffective DIY methods.
Mothballs Vs. Exterminators
While mothballs may offer a temporary deterrent, they often fall short of completely eradicating mole infestations. These small, resilient creatures can quickly adapt to the smell and presence of mothballs, rendering them ineffective over time.
On the other hand, professional exterminators bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table.
They employ targeted strategies, advanced techniques, and specialized tools to accurately locate mole tunnels and eliminate these persistent pests at the root.
Exterminators not only eradicate existing moles but also provide preventive measures to minimize the chances of future infestations.
In the battle of mothballs versus exterminators, the latter emerges as the clear winner in terms of efficacy and reliability. So, if you can afford it, skip the mothballs and opt for the expertise of exterminators.
Other Mole Removal Methods
One effective way to remove moles from your yard is by setting traps in their tunnels. This method is safe and humane, and it can be done without the use of harmful chemicals. You can purchase traps at your local hardware store or online. Simply place the trap in the mole tunnel and wait for the mole to be caught.
Once the mole has been caught, you can release it in a safe location away from your yard.
Another way to remove moles from your yard is by using poisonous bait. This method is not as safe or humane as trapping, but it can be effective. The bait is designed to mimic the food moles eat, and once the mole eats it, it will die.
However, it’s important to use caution when using poisonous bait, as it can be harmful to pets and other wildlife. It’s also important to follow the instructions carefully and dispose of the dead mole properly.
Traps For Mole Removal
To effectively trap moles in your yard, locate active tunnels by stomping on the ground to create a disturbance and place traps in the most heavily trafficked areas. There are two main types of mole traps: scissor and harpoon. Scissor traps are spring-loaded and work by crushing the mole when triggered. Harpoon traps are triggered when the mole pushes up against a trigger plate, causing a spear-like mechanism to impale the mole.
To help you make an informed decision on which trap to use, here’s a table comparing the two types of traps:
| Scissor Traps | Harpoon Traps |
|---|---|
| Can be used above or below ground | Can only be used below ground |
| More expensive | More affordable |
| Can be more effective in certain soil types | May require more skill to set up properly |
| May cause more pain and suffering to the mole | Can be more humane if set up properly |
Poisonous Bait to Remove Mole
If you’re considering getting rid of moles in your yard, poisonous bait may be an option for you. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Poisonous bait mimics the food moles eat and can result in a dead rodent.
- It’s important to use caution when handling poisonous bait, as it can harm humans or pets if ingested.
Bait should be placed in active mole tunnels for the best results. It may take several days for the bait to take effect, so patience is key.
While poisonous bait can be effective, it’s important also to address the root cause of the mole problem, such as an abundance of grubs or worms in the soil.
Repellents For Mole Removal
Repellents work by creating an unpleasant environment for moles, making them less likely to stay and tunnel in your yard.
There are two types of repellents: chemical and physical. Chemical repellents are sprayed onto the ground and emit a scent that moles dislike.
Physical repellents, on the other hand, work by creating vibrations in the ground that moles find irritating. Below is a table that summarizes the pros and cons of each type of repellent:
| Repellent Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical | Easy to apply | May harm other animals or beneficial insects |
| Long-lasting | May not be effective on all mole species | |
| Physical | Safe for animals and insects | May not be effective in all soil types |
| Can cover a large area | May require frequent battery changes | |
| Can be used in conjunction with other methods | May not work on all mole species |
Ultimately, the effectiveness of repellents depends on the specific situation and mole species. It may be worth trying a repellent before resorting to more drastic measures, but if the problem persists, it may be best to call in the professionals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to mole removal, the battle between mothballs and exterminators is fierce. While mothballs may seem like a quick and affordable solution, they often fall short in providing long-lasting results.
On the other hand, professional exterminators bring expertise, specialized tools, and a proven track record to the table. They can effectively eliminate moles and prevent future infestations, ensuring a mole-free environment for years to come.
So, if you’re serious about bidding those mischievous moles farewell, investing in professional extermination services is the way to go. Choose wisely, the ball is in you court.
