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.  

Although Rentokil does not offer mole control services, but you might find the below information useful.

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

  • 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, between spring and summer months.

Next Steps

Mole Problem?

Identify common signs of Moles to tell if you have a mole problem at your property

Mole Deterrents

See how to deter moles with practical, easy-to-follow steps

Locations


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