Dealing with moles and ground squirrels can be frustrating, as these burrowing pests damage lawns and gardens. Let’s explore effective methods for removing these critters from your yard.

How to Get Rid of Moles and Ground Squirrels

Moles and ground squirrels are notorious for their digging habits, creating mole holes and damaging garden plants. To remove ground squirrels and moles, a combination of trapping, deterrents, and habitat modification works best.

Traps: Set mole traps and squirrel traps in active areas. Position them near mole activity or nearby holes where the animals frequently appear.
Castor Oil Mixtures: Use a spray bottle to apply castor oil to the soil. It’s an effective mole repellent that doesn’t harm plants.
Natural Predators: Attract snakes, owls, or hawks, which are natural predators of moles and ground squirrels.
Poison and Pellet Guns: While some prefer using poison or a pellet gun, these should be handled carefully and may require professional guidance.

Ground Squirrels: Understanding Their Behavior

Ground squirrels enjoy sunflower seeds, nuts, and may damage trees and grass. These rodents often create holes near flower beds and lawns in search of food. Trapping or using barriers like gopher wire around plants can help reduce their damage. In some cases, using a carbon monoxide device to pump exhaust fumes into their burrows can be effective, though this method requires caution.

How Moles Eat and What Attracts Them

Moles eat insects, earthworms, and grubs. To discourage moles, consider killing grubs and other soil pests that serve as their primary food source. Their tunneling is motivated by the search for food, especially after heavy rain. Maintaining a dry yard also makes it less appealing to them.

Signs of Infestation

Identifying signs of infestation is crucial in controlling ground squirrels, moles, and voles. These burrowing pests leave behind telltale signs that can help you determine their presence in your yard. Look for the following indicators:

Burrows and Tunnels: Ground squirrels, moles, and voles create complex networks of burrows and tunnels. These can be visible above ground or hidden beneath vegetation. Ground squirrels often dig extensive burrow systems with multiple entrances.
Mounds and Holes: Moles create volcano-like mounds of soil, while voles leave 2-inch wide paths with no mounds. Ground squirrels leave horseshoe-shaped mounds near their burrow entrances.
Gnaw Marks: Ground squirrels, moles, and voles gnaw on plants, trees, and other structures, leaving behind characteristic marks. Look for chewed stems, roots, and bark.
Droppings: These pests leave behind droppings, which can be used to identify the type of pest. Ground squirrel droppings are typically larger and more cylindrical compared to those of moles and voles.
Tracks: Look for tracks or footprints in the soil or on surfaces. Ground squirrels have distinct tracks with visible claw marks, while mole tracks are less noticeable but can be found near mole holes.

Effective Ways to Remove Ground Squirrels

To remove ground squirrels:

Use deterrents like coffee grounds or plant-repellent vegetation to keep ground squirrels away.
Place gopher wire under flower beds to prevent burrowing.
Flood tunnels with water, but only after rain when the ground is already wet for better results.

Managing Burrowing Pests

For a long-term solution to burrowing pests, consider a combination of traps, natural predators, and environmental adjustments. Removing water sources, keeping the soil dry, and adding barriers like gopher wire can prevent critters like moles, pocket gophers, and ground squirrels from causing damage to your property.

Prevention and Maintenance

Preventing infestations is key to controlling ground squirrels, moles, and voles. By taking proactive measures, you can make your yard less attractive to these burrowing pests. Here are some tips:

Remove Attractants: Keep your yard free of debris, clutter, and food sources that may attract burrowing pests. Ground squirrels are particularly drawn to sunflower seeds and nuts, so avoid leaving these out.
Seal Entry Points: Seal any holes or gaps in your home’s foundation, walls, or floors to prevent pests from entering. Ground squirrels can squeeze through surprisingly small openings.
Use Repellents: Apply repellents, such as castor oil or predator urine, around the perimeter of your yard to deter pests. Castor oil is especially effective against moles.
Plant Pest-Resistant Plants: Plant garden plants that are resistant to burrowing pests, such as daffodils or hyacinths. These plants are less likely to be damaged by ground squirrels and moles.
Maintain a Clean Yard: Regularly clean up debris, leaves, and weeds, which can attract pests. A tidy yard is less inviting to ground squirrels and other burrowing animals.

Additional Methods to Control Pests

While hardware stores sell numerous products like poison and traps, more natural methods such as applying castor oil, using coffee grounds, and promoting the presence of predators like birds and snakes can be effective for eco-friendly pest control.

However, in severe cases, contacting a professional might be necessary to handle persistent rodent problems and prevent further damage to your yard and plants.

When to Call a Pest Control Professional

While many pest control methods can be handled by homeowners, there are situations where professional help is necessary.

Here are some scenarios where calling a pest control professional is essential:

Large Infestations: If you have a large infestation of ground squirrels, moles, or voles, it’s best to call a professional to ensure effective removal and prevention. Professionals have the tools and expertise to handle extensive infestations.
Complex Burrow Systems: If you have a complex burrow system, it’s challenging to remove the pests without professional help. Ground squirrels and moles can create intricate networks that require specialized knowledge to address.
Property Damage: If you notice significant property damage, such as foundation cracks or soil erosion, it’s essential to call a professional to assess and repair the damage. Burrowing pests can cause serious structural issues if left unchecked.
Health Concerns: If you suspect that the pests are carrying diseases or posing a health risk, it’s crucial to call a professional to ensure safe removal. Ground squirrels, in particular, can carry diseases that are harmful to humans and pets.

Recommended Products and Tools for Managing Moles and Rodents

Mole Traps: Place specialized traps in active mole tunnels for effective removal.
Castor Oil: Use castor oil as a natural repellent by applying it around the perimeter of your yard to deter moles and voles.
Gopher Wire: Protect garden areas by installing gopher wire to prevent burrowing pests from accessing plants.
Natural Predators: Attract predators like owls or hawks by installing nesting boxes.
Pellet Gun: If necessary, use a pellet gun to humanely control rodent populations, adhering to local regulations.

Methods to Eliminate Moles and Ground Squirrels While Protecting Your Yard

By employing various strategies like setting a mole trap in an active tunnel, using castor oil, and eliminating grubs and Japanese beetles (which moles eat), you can significantly reduce mole and ground squirrel activity.

For rodent problems, consider exhaust pipe fumigation or other methods such as deterrents like coffee grounds or gopher wire.

Traps and active ingredients from a hardware store can also help. Be proactive in spring by identifying mounds, reducing worms, and addressing issues before they spread.

How To Get Rid Of Moles And Ground Squirrels: A Complete Guide