Recognizing the Signs: When to Call a Professional Mole Exterminator
Moles, with their subterranean lifestyle, can wreak havoc on lawns and gardens. While some level of mole activity is natural, an infestation can lead to unsightly damage and compromised plant health. Knowing when to call a professional mole exterminator is crucial for effective and timely intervention. Keep an eye out for these signs that indicate it’s time to bring in the experts:
Mounded Soil and Surface Tunnels:
One of the most visible signs of mole activity is the presence of mounded soil or raised ridges across your lawn. Moles create tunnels beneath the surface as they search for food, pushing up soil and forming distinctive mounds. If you notice an increasing number of these mounds, it may be an indication of a mole infestation.
Wilting or Dying Plants:
Moles primarily feed on insects and grubs, but their tunneling can have secondary effects on plants. As moles disturb the soil structure, plant roots may become exposed or damaged, leading to wilting or even death of grass, flowers, and shrubs. If you observe unexplained plant damage, moles could be the culprit.
Visible Surface Tunnels:
In addition to mounded soil, moles may create visible surface tunnels or raised ridges as they move through your lawn. These tunnels can disrupt the integrity of the soil and contribute to the formation of a network of interconnected pathways.
Soft, Spongy Ground:
Moles create extensive tunnel systems underground, which can result in the soil feeling soft and spongy underfoot. If you notice unusual softness or sinking areas in your lawn, it could be indicative of mole tunnels beneath the surface.
Increased Pest Activity:
Moles primarily feed on insects, grubs, and earthworms. An uptick in pest activity, such as an increased presence of grubs in your lawn, can attract moles. If you’re dealing with a concurrent pest problem and notice mole activity, it’s wise to address both issues simultaneously.
Unexplained Lawn Damage:
While moles primarily feed on insects, their tunneling behavior can indirectly cause damage to your lawn. The disruption of soil and root systems can lead to patches of dead or unhealthy grass. If you’re unable to identify the cause of unexplained lawn damage, consider the possibility of mole activity.
Multiple Mounds Appearing Quickly:
If you observe a sudden surge in the number of molehills or mounds across your lawn, it may indicate a rapid increase in mole activity. Professional intervention becomes crucial in such situations to prevent further damage and address the infestation promptly.
Frustrating DIY Efforts:
If your attempts to control moles using DIY methods, such as repellents or traps, prove unsuccessful or provide only temporary relief, it’s time to call in a professional mole exterminator. Persistent mole problems often require specialized knowledge and tools for effective control.
Visible Molehills Near Structures:
Mole activity close to structures, such as the foundation of your home or garden walls, can pose a risk. Moles may undermine the stability of structures with their tunneling. If you notice molehills near important structures, seeking professional assistance is crucial.
Large-Scale Landscape Disturbance:
In cases of extensive mole infestations, the landscape may exhibit widespread disruption with an intricate network of tunnels and mounds. Large-scale disturbance calls for professional expertise to assess the severity of the infestation and implement effective control measures.
In conclusion, recognizing the signs of a mole infestation early on is key to preventing extensive damage to your lawn and garden. If you observe multiple signs mentioned above, it’s advisable to call a professional mole exterminator who can assess the situation, implement targeted control measures, and help restore the health and aesthetics of your outdoor space.