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Mole Traps: Can You Use Them?


Mole control is one of the most complicated problems thatcan face a gardening enthusiast.

It is not from lack of information. Plenty of information isavailable. University research and white papers, governmentbrochures, and plenty of expert opinions.

It is not from a lack of products either. At any time thereare 10 or more different varieties of mole trap on sale,plus various poisons and repellants.

The experts, university professors and even the government,when they express an opinion, even come close to aconcensus. Mole traps are probably the most effective methodof mole control, if set correctly, checked on a regularbasis etc.

Most reports however take a very simplistic view:-

A single plot of land

  • No regard to whether neighbouring plots are residential, farmland or wooded.
  • No recommendations on how to co-ordinate efforts withneighbours.
  • If one neighbour has a huge infestation of moles, butrefuses to take action, can they be force to do so? If youused fumigation in such a case, could they hold you liablefor killing their moles?
Rules apply to specific locality

There are states in the US where the use of mole traps arerestricted. There are areas of Canada where both the EasternMole and the Townsend mole are a protected species. Thebordering states in the US have no restrictions, yet speciesconservation is meant to be a global concern.

Lethal methods of mole control can only be used in Germany where the moles are a confirmed hazard.The use of traps in many US States currently falls underhunting regulations which can require a license, andspecific measures to be taken. This is often not enforced.

To research solutions to your mole problem, don't just grab the first offer with a guaranteed solution. Factor in the time administering the solution will consume on a daily basis, heed local legislation, and be aware of environmental issues.

Andy Beard is researching mole control to combat the molesin his garden. More information can be found atGetting Rid of Ground Moles

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