The Intriguing Role of Moles in Lawn Ecosystems

Understanding the Mole: A Gardener's Unlikely Ally

Moles are small, burrowing mammals that inhabit various regions across North America. The Eastern mole, also known as the gray mole, is one of the six species found on the continent and is the most prevalent in gardens. These creatures are similar in size to chipmunks, weighing between three to six ounces and measuring six to eight inches in length.

Contrary to common belief, moles do not feed on plant roots. They are insectivores, with a diet primarily consisting of earthworms and grubs. A single mole can consume over 140 grubs and cutworms daily. Over the course of a year, a mole weighing just over a quarter-pound can devour between 45 to 50 pounds of worms and insects, including garden pests like snails, beetles, and millipedes.

The Hidden Benefits of Mole Activity

While mole tunneling can cause some disruption by separating soil from plant roots, it also has several positive effects on soil quality. The digging process aerates the soil, turns it over, and distributes nutrients, which can enhance plant growth and health.

Moles do not continuously dig new tunnels; they primarily use established systems and only extend them when necessary. Signs of mole activity, such as mounds of soil, often indicate repair work rather than new construction. If a mole vacates an area, it's common for another to take over the existing tunnels, making trapping a temporary solution at best.

The Ineffectiveness of Traditional Mole Control Methods

Traditional mole control methods, including traps like harpoons, scissor-jaws, and choker loops, are not only cruel but also largely ineffective as long-term solutions. Other remedies, such as pickle juice, red pepper, razor blades, bleach, mothballs, and ultrasonic devices, have proven inconsistent and can have environmentally harmful side effects.

Sustainable Strategies for Managing Moles

To minimize mole activity near the surface, it's advisable to adjust watering practices. Over-watering can attract earthworms and other invertebrates to the surface, prompting moles to follow. By reducing watering frequency or amount, both moles and their prey are encouraged to remain deeper underground, where they can benefit the lawn without causing visible damage.

Another approach is to diversify the landscape by converting parts of the lawn into gardens, paths, and hedgerows. This not only adds visual appeal and attracts wildlife like birds and butterflies but also disrupts the moles' preference for straight tunnel runs, reducing the visibility of any damage.

The Overlooked Importance of Moles in Lawn Care

Despite their reputation, moles play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy lawn ecosystem. Their burrowing habits contribute to soil aeration and pest control, making them valuable to gardeners. By understanding the mole's diet and behavior, and implementing sustainable lawn care practices, gardeners can coexist with these creatures and even benefit from their presence.

For more information on the Eastern mole and its habits, visit the National Wildlife Federation.

To learn about sustainable gardening practices, check out resources from the University of California's Integrated Pest Management Program.