Mole Problem?
Identify common signs of Moles to tell if you have a mole problem at your property
Garden moles (european moles)
(Talpa europaea)
As solitary creatures most of the year round, you’ll be very lucky to see a garden (European) mole.
They rarely come above ground, but the evidence of the activity of a solitary mole can spread far and wide as a mole tunnel system can cover 100 – 1000 square metres.
Moles create extensive networks of permanent and feeding tunnels, so that’s when you’re most likely notice the effects of garden moles on your property.
Appearance
- 15cm in length. 75–130g in weight.
- Slate–grey ‘velvety’ fur.
- Short palm–like front feet used for digging. Also known as common or northern mole.
Life cycle and habits of the European Mole
Life Cycle
- 1 litter per year with 3–4 young.
Habits
- Feeds on earthworms, insect larvae and slugs.
- Present on most ground below an altitude of 1000m. Disfigures lawns with hills, damages farm machinery, e.g. combine harvesters, by throwing up stones.
- Livestock may injure their legs in mole tunnels.
- Solitary apart from breeding season, February to June.