In California, moles inhabit the Sierra and Coast Range mountains and foothills, as well as the entire coastal zone. They are not generally found in the Central Valley or dry southeastern areas of the state. Moles live almost eintirely underground in a vast network of interconnecting tunnels 3 to 30 inches deep. They feed mainly on earthworms, insects, and other invertebrates but also eat some roots, bulbs, and seeds. Their burrowing sometimes dislodges plants, and their mounds and ridges are often annoying to landscapers and gardeners.

CONTROL METHODS

Trapping is the most universally applicable and dependable method of mole control.In California, several types of mole traps are available.

The Reddick (harpoon type) and the Out-Of-Sight (scissor-jaw type) mole traps are the most used. Moles have been caught with the Macabee and Black hole gopher traps set in the mole runways. Trap manufacturers often provide detailed instructions which should be followed carefully.

TOXIC BAITS

Because the mole's main diet is earthworms and insects, poisoning with the strychnine grain baits currently registered in California is rarely effective.

OTHER CONTROL METHODS THAT DON'T WORK WELL

Flooding the area
Fumigating with various gasses and chemicals
Broken glass
Razor blades
Rose branches
Bleach
Moth balls
Lye
Human hair
Frightening devices
Whistling bottles
Repelling plants (Gopher/Mole plant)

MONITORING GUIDELINES

Once you have controlled damage, establish a system to monitor for reinfestation. Mounds and surface runways are easy to detect.These are indicators of reinfestation.Because mole damage is frequently unsightly, the number of moles that can be tolerated is usually quite low, sometimes even none at all. As soon as you see and active mound or surface runway, you should initiate appropriate control actions.