How To Get Rid Of Moles And Groundhogs

So, there I was, minding my own business in the garden, when suddenly, a mole decided to turn my carefully cultivated plot into a mini golf course. I mean, who invited him to the party? That's when I realized, it's time to have a little chat about our furry, tunneling neighbors.

Understanding Our Unwanted Guests

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of eviction, let's get to know our little friends. Moles and groundhogs are both burrowing critters, but they're not exactly the same. Moles are insectivores, meaning they love a good bug buffet. Groundhogs, on the other hand, are rodents with a penchant for veggies. They're also the ones responsible for that famous Groundhog Day prediction, but that's a story for another time.

Now, I'm not saying we should throw them a welcome party, but understanding their habits can help us figure out how to politely ask them to move along.

Mole-ing Around: Signs of a Mole Infestation

Moles are easy to spot. Their tunneling habits leave behind distinctive volcano-like mounds of dirt. They're also quite active, so you might see these mounds popping up all over your yard. But don't worry, they're not after your plants. They're after the grubs and worms that live beneath them.

Groundhogs, however, are a bit more stealthy. They prefer to live in abandoned burrows or under structures like decks and sheds. You might spot them sunbathing in your yard or notice their clippings - they're fond of eating grass and other greens.

Operation: Eviction Notice

Alright, let's roll up our sleeves and get to work. Remember, the goal is to make our yards less inviting, not to harm the critters. After all, they're just looking for a place to call home, just like us.

Mole-Proofing Your Yard

Castor Oil - This natural repellent is a mole's kryptonite. Mix it with water and pour it into their tunnels. The strong smell will send them packing. Just be prepared to reapply after rain.

Side note: You might want to keep this away from your pets. Some can be sensitive to castor oil.

Ultrasonic Pest Repellers - These devices emit high-frequency sounds that humans can't hear, but moles and other critters can. They're a bit pricey, but they're eco-friendly and humane.

Groundhog-Proofing Your Yard

Fencing - A sturdy, wire mesh fence can keep groundhogs out. Make sure it's at least 2 feet high and buried about a foot underground to prevent them from digging under it.

Side note: You might want to consider adding a second fence a few feet inside the first one. Groundhogs are great climbers and can scale a single fence.

Predator Urine - Yes, you read that right. Predator urine, like coyote or fox, can scare groundhogs away. It's available at most garden stores and is a safe, natural deterrent.

Prevention is the Best Medicine

Keeping your yard healthy can go a long way in preventing mole and groundhog infestations. Moles love grubs, so keep your lawn healthy to prevent infestations. Groundhogs, on the other hand, are attracted to tall grass and weeds, so keep your yard neatly trimmed.

And remember, patience is key. These methods take time to work, so don't give up if you don't see results right away. With a little persistence, you'll have your yard back in no time.

Side note: If you suspect a critter has taken up residence under your deck or shed, you might want to consider blocking the entrance with hardware cloth. This will keep them out without harming them.