PlantLegitMoles in the yard: what actually works
Sources (3)
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Checked October 18, 2026. Wildlife rules differ by state. Clemson notes it is illegal to relocate moles in South Carolina, so check your state's wildlife agency before trapping.
Is it a mole or a vole?
| Mole | Vole | |
|---|---|---|
| Eats | Insects, grubs and earthworms | Roots and stems of plants |
| Signs | Raised ridges of soil in the lawn and volcano-shaped mounds | Golf-ball-sized holes, often in old mole tunnels. Plants topple with roots gnawed off |
| Looks like | 4–7 in., paddle-shaped front feet, no external ears | 5–8 in., like a short-tailed field mouse |
Source: Clemson HGIC 2366. UMD adds that moles get blamed for plant damage, but in most cases voles did it (UMD Extension).
What works and what doesn't
| Method | What Extension says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Traps in an active tunnel | Works. Clemson calls trapping the most effective control. Harpoon and scissor traps work best, especially in fall and winter. Expect results in 2–3 days. | Clemson, HGIC 2366 |
| Grub control products | Won't get rid of moles. They also eat earthworms and other insects, and Clemson says grub treatments aren't environmentally sound. | UMD, HGIC 2366 |
| Castor oil repellents | "Not very effective" because the effect is temporary | HGIC 2366 |
| Chewing gum, vibrating or ultrasonic devices | "Often … not very effective" | HGIC 2366 |
| Mothballs | Don't work. Clemson says using them this way is illegal pesticide misuse. | HGIC 2366 |
| Poison baits (bromethalin worms) | May be a hazard to people, pets and wildlife. Read and follow the label. | HGIC 2366 |
| Mousetraps with peanut butter | Ineffective | HGIC 2366 |
| Doing nothing | Often fine. Mole activity can be seasonal and stop on its own. Moles also eat lawn pests and loosen the soil. | UMD |
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Get a plan for my backyardHow to find an active tunnel
Placement matters more than the brand of trap. Clemson's method: poke a small hole in the top of a tunnel with a stick and wait 24 hours. If the hole has been repaired, the tunnel is active. The straight runs leading from mounds get used most. Winding feeding tunnels are often temporary (Clemson HGIC). UMD's version: press down sections of tunnel and set traps where the soil is raised again the next day (UMD Extension). Moles live alone, so Clemson notes that removing one or two can make a big difference.
Related: garden pests: what works vs myth · deer-resistant plants · standing water in yard
Common questions
Does killing grubs get rid of moles?
No. University of Maryland Extension says grub control products will not eliminate a mole problem because moles also eat earthworms and soil insects.
Does castor oil keep moles away?
Clemson HGIC says castor oil products are not very effective because their effect is temporary.
What is the best way to get rid of moles?
Clemson HGIC calls trapping the most effective method. Set harpoon or scissor traps in an active tunnel, ideally in fall or winter. Find active tunnels by poking a hole and checking whether it is repaired within 24 hours.
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