Moles (Talpa europaea) are small, solitary mammals that live underground and feed on insects, earthworms, and larvae. While they play a role in soil aeration, they can quickly damage domestic gardens, sports fields, golf courses, and farmland. In the UK, moles are not protected by law, but they must be controlled humanely. Their burrowing creates unsightly molehills and tunnels, damaging turf, disturbing roots, and posing trip hazards in high-traffic areas.
Moles constantly burrow through soil looking for their favourite food, earth worms and other invertebrates. Although moles are seldom seen above ground, the damage they cause is very visible.
Their excavations are not only unsightly, but can pose a hazard to humans and animals. Over time a level area of grass can become uneven and require repairs to avoid trips and falls.
We use traditional mole traps to quickly and safely remove moles damaging our clients land.
As full members of The British Pest Control Association, you can be assured that we are both trained & qualified. We are fully insured and follow all industry Code of Best Practice, using only the most humane and effective methods available.
While moles don’t pose a direct threat to humans or pets, their burrowing activity can lead to:
In commercial settings like golf courses or managed estates, moles can cause reputational damage and significant upkeep costs if not dealt with swiftly.
Controlling moles requires skill, and knowledge of their behaviour. Methods vary depending on the type of land and severity of the problem.
In the vast majority of cases, traditional mole trapping is the safest and most effective method of control mole numbers.
Mole control techniques include:
We often see clients attempt to use ultra sonic emitting devices, that are often sold to deter moles from their land. We have yet to see a case where these work, and tend to lead to delays while are attempted allowing more damage to occur.
Every branch is run by local pest professionals who live and work in your area. We know your community, and your pest problems – better than anyone.
Our process is built around expertise, safety, and long-term results. From the first inspection to prevention, every step is tailored to your property and pest issue.
We begin with a detailed inspection to identify the pest and assess the severity. This helps us plan the best next steps.
Each pest issue is different. We create custom plans based on the pest type, property layout, and infestation level — from Moles and rats to mice and wasps.
As BPCA members, we prioritize safe, non-toxic pest control wherever possible — protecting your property without harming wildlife or the environment.
We offer preventative measures like sealing entry points, traps, or monitors — helping stop pests from coming back and giving you long-term peace of mind.
No more guessing, no more damage. Let our trained professionals assess your space and implement a treatment that works.
Moles do not typically feed on plants, as their diet consists mainly of earthworms and insects. However, they can still cause indirect damage to gardens and landscaped areas. Their tunnelling activity may:
Disturb or lift plant roots, leading to stress or reduced growth.
Create air gaps in the soil, which can affect moisture retention and root stability.
Provide access routes for other pests, such as voles, that do feed on plants and roots.
In summary, while moles are not actively eating plants, their burrowing can compromise plant health and create conditions that allow other pests to cause further damage.
Moles are not considered a protected species under UK law, however there are some legislative considerations when carrying out mole control work.
Certain methods of control are regulated to ensure they are humane and compliant with animal welfare legislation.
There are certain outdated methods that were once used, that are now illegal, such as using poison or traps that are no longer approved for use.
Yes — moles can return after treatment, especially if conditions remain favourable. Once an existing mole is removed, the vacant tunnel system and the quality of the soil can attract new moles moving into the area.
Therefore mole control is often a continual management exercise, where no moles are removed from the area when they turn up.
Yes — moles are active throughout the entire year. They do not hibernate, and their underground lifestyle allows them to remain active regardless of weather conditions.
Winter: Moles remain active beneath the frost line, continuing to feed and extend their tunnel systems.
Spring: Often the period of highest visible activity, as soil is softer and food sources increase.
Summer: Activity may move deeper underground during hot, dry spells to stay close to moisture and earthworms.
Autumn: Increased tunnelling may occur as moles prepare for colder conditions.
Identifying mole activity is generally straightforward, as they leave distinct signs in lawns, gardens, and landscaped areas.
Molehills: Fresh, loose mounds of soil pushed to the surface as moles excavate new tunnels. These are typically conical and well-defined.
Surface Runs: Raised ridges or soft, uneven ground caused by shallow feeding tunnels close to the surface.
Subsurface Tunnels: Areas that feel spongy underfoot due to deeper tunnel networks disrupting soil structure.
If signs are unclear, a site inspection can confirm whether the issue is caused by moles or another species such as voles or rats, which leave different patterns of soil disturbance.
Landowners can attempt to control moles themselves, but results are often very without professional knowledge and quality approved equipment. Mole behaviour and tunnel patterns make effective control more complex than it may appear. We often visit properties where home owners have tried and failed to tackle it themselves.
Trapping for moles looks simple, but it truly is a skill developed through experience.
Yes — a single mole can produce many molehills, often far more than most people expect. Moles are typically solitary animals, and one individual can create an extensive tunnel system across a lawn or garden.
Short answer. No.
Longer answer. Noooooo.
In our view they just dont work. We see on an almost daily basis sonic repellers in clients homes who have spent money on devices claiming to deter moles, birds, spiders foxes, mice, the list is endless. Once they don’t work, they call us.
Any new noise to an environment is likely to cause a disturbance to an animal. But animals quickly learn its not something to worry about and return to their previous behaviour.
If sonic repellers were enough to deter pests, they would be standard fit on every home and commercial premises in the country.
