What is a vole ?

Unraveling the Mystery of Voles: All You Need to Know

Voles are small rodents that often wreak havoc in gardens and landscapes. Discover their characteristics, habitat, and how to effectively control them.

Table of Contents

  • Introduction to Voles

  • Types of Voles: A Closer Look

  • Vole Habitat and Behavior

  • Distinguishing Voles from Other Rodents

  • The Impact of Voles on Gardens and Landscapes

  • Vole Control and Prevention

  • Conclusion


Introduction to Voles

Voles, scientifically known as Microtus spp., are small, elusive rodents that belong to the family Cricetidae. They are often confused with other small mammals like mice and moles due to their similar appearance. However, voles have unique characteristics that set them apart, including their round, compact bodies, short tails, and hidden ears.

we recommend scheduling a free rodent control inspection, with Rapid Rodent Removal. Since all living things need food, water, and shelter to survive, it is not uncommon for a critter to seek shelter in your property. As we continue to industrialize, the habitat available to all wildlife is continuously shrinking while the population of wildlife is increasing.
Click below to further figure out which animal is plaguing your home for Wildlife Removal.


Types of Voles: A Closer Look

There are over 150 species of voles worldwide, with more than 20 species found in North America alone. The most common species in the United States include:

  • Meadow voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus): Found in grassy areas, meadows, and fields across the country, they are the most widespread vole species.

  • Prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster): These voles inhabit prairies and grasslands in the central United States.

  • Pine voles (Microtus pinetorum): Common in the eastern United States, they prefer wooded habitats with abundant ground cover.



Vole Habitat and Behavior

Voles are highly adaptable creatures and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, forests, and even residential areas. They prefer locations with dense vegetation, which offers them protection from predators and an abundant food supply.

These small mammals are mostly herbivorous, feeding on a diet of plant matter such as grasses, seeds, tubers, and tree bark. They are active throughout the year, day and night, and exhibit a high reproductive rate, with females capable of producing multiple litters annually.



Distinguishing Voles from Other Rodents

Voles share many physical similarities with other rodents, particularly mice and moles, which can lead to confusion. Here are some key differences to help identify voles:

  • Body Shape: Voles have round, stout bodies, whereas mice are more slender with elongated bodies.

  • Tail Length: Voles possess short tails, while mice and moles have longer tails.

  • Ear Visibility: The ears of voles are small and hidden beneath their fur, while mice have prominent, visible ears.



The Impact of Voles on Gardens and Landscapes

Voles can cause significant damage to gardens, lawns, and landscapes due to their feeding habits and burrowing behavior. Common signs of vole presence include:

  • Surface Runways: Voles create intricate networks of above-ground runways in grassy areas, which can be easily spotted as narrow, worn-down paths.

  • Burrow Entrances: Voles dig small burrows with openings about 1 to 2 inches in diameter, which can be found throughout their territory.

  • Damaged Plants: Voles feed on the roots, tubers, and bark of various plants, causing wilting, yellowing, and even the death of the affected plants.

  • Girdled Trees: Voles can chew the bark off the base of trees, especially during winter months when food is scarce. This girdling can lead to the decline or death of trees.

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Vole Control and Prevention

Effective vole control and prevention strategies can help minimize the impact of these rodents on your property. Consider implementing the following measures:

  1. Habitat Modification: Reduce vole-friendly habitats by mowing grass regularly, removing brush piles, and maintaining a clean landscape.

  2. Physical Barriers: Install hardware cloth or wire mesh around the base of trees and shrubs to prevent voles from girdling.

  3. Trapping: Place snap traps or live traps along vole runways to capture and remove them from your property.

  4. Repellents: Utilize vole repellents, such as those containing castor oil or capsaicin, to deter voles from feeding on plants and entering specific areas.

  5. Predator Encouragement: Attract natural predators like owls, hawks, and snakes by installing nesting boxes or providing suitable habitats.



Conclusion

Voles are small, unassuming rodents that can cause extensive damage to gardens and landscapes if left unchecked. By understanding their characteristics, habitat, and behavior, you can take effective steps to control and prevent vole infestations on your property. Implementing a combination of habitat modification, physical barriers, trapping, repellents, and encouraging natural predators can help keep these pesky rodents at bay.




 

All About Animals …

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  • RATS

  • SQUIRRELS

  • RACCOONS

  • OPOSSUMS

  • SNAKES

  • BATS

  • WILDLIFE REMOVAL



 
 
 

Voles & Moles

We've crafted a comprehensive guide on the differences between moles, voles, and shrews. As a pest control company, we have seen numerous clients struggling with identifying these creatures correctly. Misidentification can lead to ineffective control methods and persistent pest problems. Therefore, we have put together this guide to assist homeowners in understanding the differences between moles, voles, and shrews.

What are moles?

Moles are burrowing animals that have cylindrical bodies, short tails, and large, paddle-like front feet. Their unique physical characteristics make them highly adapted for digging tunnels in soil, and their diet primarily consists of earthworms and grubs. They can cause damage to lawns and gardens, but they do not eat plant roots.

What are voles?

Voles, also known as meadow mice, are small rodents with stocky bodies and short legs. They are active during the day and night, and they can cause damage to gardens and lawns by eating plant roots and tubers. Voles prefer to live in areas with dense vegetation, such as grassy fields or forests.

What are shrews?

Shrews are tiny mammals that resemble mice, but they have long, pointed snouts and small, sharp teeth. They are active during the day and night and primarily feed on insects, worms, and other small invertebrates. Shrews do not cause damage to gardens or lawns, and they do not typically enter homes.

How to identify moles, voles, and shrews?

Moles can be identified by their cylindrical bodies, short tails, and large, paddle-like front feet. They leave distinctive ridges and mounds on the soil surface as they burrow. Voles can be identified by their stocky bodies, short legs, and rounded ears. They leave runways in the grass or snow and gnaw on roots and bark of trees and shrubs. Shrews can be identified by their long, pointed snouts, and small sharp teeth. They are usually found in areas with dense vegetation, and their presence is often indicated by small tunnels and droppings.

How to control moles, voles, and shrews?

Moles can be controlled by trapping, baiting, or using repellents. Voles can be controlled by removing their habitat, such as tall grass or dense vegetation, and using traps or repellents. Shrews do not typically require control measures as they do not cause damage to lawns or gardens. However, if shrews become a nuisance, they can be controlled using traps or repellents.

Understanding the differences between moles, voles, and shrews is crucial in identifying the appropriate control measures for each species. Misidentification can lead to ineffective control methods and persistent pest problems. By following the tips outlined in this guide, homeowners can effectively identify and control these pests to maintain a healthy and pest-free environment.

TD Moles-->Digging tunnels in soil Moles-->Eat earthworms and grubs Voles-->Cause damage to gardens and lawns Voles-->Eat plant roots and tubers Shrews-->Resemble mice Shrews-->Active during day and night Shrews-->Feed on insects, worms, and other small invertebrates


Now that we have covered the basic characteristics and behaviors of moles, voles, and shrews, let us delve deeper into each species' traits.

Moles

Moles are well adapted for underground life. Their cylindrical body shape and large, paddle-like front feet, along with a loose skin that allows them to move freely within tunnels, make them excellent diggers. Moles also have sharp teeth that are specialized for eating earthworms and grubs, their primary food source.

Moles are solitary creatures that spend most of their time underground. They are not social animals and do not form colonies or hives. Moles do not hibernate, and they remain active throughout the year, although they may burrow deeper into the soil during colder months.

Voles

Voles, also known as meadow mice, are small rodents that resemble mice. They have stocky bodies, short legs, and small ears. Voles are primarily herbivores and feed on a variety of plant materials, including roots, tubers, and bark. Voles are active during the day and night and live in colonies of up to 100 individuals. They breed rapidly and can quickly become a pest problem if left unchecked.

Shrews

Shrews are tiny mammals that are often mistaken for mice. They have long, pointed snouts and small, sharp teeth. Shrews are active throughout the year and feed on a variety of insects, worms, and other small invertebrates. They do not eat plant materials and are not known to cause damage to lawns or gardens. Shrews are solitary creatures that do not form colonies or hives.

Control Measures

Controlling moles, voles, and shrews can be challenging. However, there are several measures that homeowners can take to keep these pests under control.

Moles can be trapped using mole-specific traps, such as scissor or harpoon traps. Baiting and the use of repellents can also be effective in controlling mole populations. However, homeowners should be cautious when using repellents as some may harm beneficial organisms such as earthworms.

Voles can be controlled by using traps or repellents. Habitat modification can also be effective, such as removing tall grasses and weeds from around the garden or lawn. In severe cases, homeowners may need to resort to using rodenticides, but this is not recommended as they can be harmful to other wildlife and pets.

Shrews do not typically require control measures as they are not known to cause damage to lawns or gardens. If shrews become a nuisance, they can be controlled using traps or repellents.

In conclusion, identifying and controlling moles, voles, and shrews can be a challenging task for homeowners. By understanding the differences between these species, homeowners can take appropriate measures to keep them under control. Remember, it is crucial to use control measures that are safe for beneficial organisms and other wildlife, such as pets.


 

All About Animals …

Suspendisse nec congue purus. Aenean eu justo sed elit dignissim aliquam. Suspendisse nec congue purus. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos himenaeos.

  • RATS

  • SQUIRRELS

  • RACCOONS

  • OPOSSUMS

  • SNAKES

  • BATS

  • WILDLIFE REMOVAL



 
 
 

Vole Diet

We've crafted a comprehensive guide on the differences between moles, voles, and shrews. As a pest control company, we have seen numerous clients struggling with identifying these creatures correctly. Misidentification can lead to ineffective control methods and persistent pest problems. Therefore, we have put together this guide to assist homeowners in understanding the differences between moles, voles, and shrews.

What are moles?

Moles are burrowing animals that have cylindrical bodies, short tails, and large, paddle-like front feet. Their unique physical characteristics make them highly adapted for digging tunnels in soil, and their diet primarily consists of earthworms and grubs. They can cause damage to lawns and gardens, but they do not eat plant roots.

What are voles?

Voles, also known as meadow mice, are small rodents with stocky bodies and short legs. They are active during the day and night, and they can cause damage to gardens and lawns by eating plant roots and tubers. Voles prefer to live in areas with dense vegetation, such as grassy fields or forests.

What are shrews?

Shrews are tiny mammals that resemble mice, but they have long, pointed snouts and small, sharp teeth. They are active during the day and night and primarily feed on insects, worms, and other small invertebrates. Shrews do not cause damage to gardens or lawns, and they do not typically enter homes.

How to identify moles, voles, and shrews?

Moles can be identified by their cylindrical bodies, short tails, and large, paddle-like front feet. They leave distinctive ridges and mounds on the soil surface as they burrow. Voles can be identified by their stocky bodies, short legs, and rounded ears. They leave runways in the grass or snow and gnaw on roots and bark of trees and shrubs. Shrews can be identified by their long, pointed snouts, and small sharp teeth. They are usually found in areas with dense vegetation, and their presence is often indicated by small tunnels and droppings.

How to control moles, voles, and shrews?

Moles can be controlled by trapping, baiting, or using repellents. Voles can be controlled by removing their habitat, such as tall grass or dense vegetation, and using traps or repellents. Shrews do not typically require control measures as they do not cause damage to lawns or gardens. However, if shrews become a nuisance, they can be controlled using traps or repellents.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between moles, voles, and shrews is crucial in identifying the appropriate control measures for each species. Misidentification can lead to ineffective control methods and persistent pest problems. By following the tips outlined in this guide, homeowners can effectively identify and control these pests to maintain a healthy and pest-free environment.

h TD Moles-->Digging tunnels in soil Moles-->Eat earthworms and grubs Voles-->Cause damage to gardens and lawns Voles-->Eat plant roots and tubers Shrews-->Resemble mice Shrews-->Active during day and night Shrews-->Feed on insects, worms, and other small invertebrates



Now that we have covered the basic characteristics and behaviors of moles, voles, and shrews, let us delve deeper into each species' traits.

Moles

Moles are well adapted for underground life. Their cylindrical body shape and large, paddle-like front feet, along with a loose skin that allows them to move freely within tunnels, make them excellent diggers. Moles also have sharp teeth that are specialized for eating earthworms and grubs, their primary food source.

Moles are solitary creatures that spend most of their time underground. They are not social animals and do not form colonies or hives. Moles do not hibernate, and they remain active throughout the year, although they may burrow deeper into the soil during colder months.

Voles

Voles, also known as meadow mice, are small rodents that resemble mice. They have stocky bodies, short legs, and small ears. Voles are primarily herbivores and feed on a variety of plant materials, including roots, tubers, and bark. Voles are active during the day and night and live in colonies of up to 100 individuals. They breed rapidly and can quickly become a pest problem if left unchecked.

Shrews

Shrews are tiny mammals that are often mistaken for mice. They have long, pointed snouts and small, sharp teeth. Shrews are active throughout the year and feed on a variety of insects, worms, and other small invertebrates. They do not eat plant materials and are not known to cause damage to lawns or gardens. Shrews are solitary creatures that do not form colonies or hives.

Control Measures

Controlling moles, voles, and shrews can be challenging. However, there are several measures that homeowners can take to keep these pests under control.

Moles can be trapped using mole-specific traps, such as scissor or harpoon traps. Baiting and the use of repellents can also be effective in controlling mole populations. However, homeowners should be cautious when using repellents as some may harm beneficial organisms such as earthworms.

Voles can be controlled by using traps or repellents. Habitat modification can also be effective, such as removing tall grasses and weeds from around the garden or lawn. In severe cases, homeowners may need to resort to using rodenticides, but this is not recommended as they can be harmful to other wildlife and pets.

Shrews do not typically require control measures as they are not known to cause damage to lawns or gardens. If shrews become a nuisance, they can be controlled using traps or repellents.

Conclusion

In conclusion, identifying and controlling moles, voles, and shrews can be a challenging task for homeowners. By understanding the differences between these species, homeowners can take appropriate measures to keep them under control. Remember, it is crucial to use control measures that are safe for beneficial organisms and other wildlife, such as pets.


 

All About Animals …

Suspendisse nec congue purus. Aenean eu justo sed elit dignissim aliquam. Suspendisse nec congue purus. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos himenaeos.

  • RATS

  • SQUIRRELS

  • RACCOONS

  • OPOSSUMS

  • SNAKES

  • BATS

  • WILDLIFE REMOVAL



 
 
 

What does a vole look like ?

The Ultimate Guide to Identifying Voles: Characteristics, Behavior, and Prevention

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction

  2. Vole Identification: Appearance and Physical Traits

  3. Habitats and Behavior of Voles

  4. Vole Damage and Signs of Infestation

  5. Prevention and Control Measures

  6. Professional Vole Removal Services

1. Introduction

Voles, small rodents that closely resemble mice and rats, often cause significant damage to gardens, lawns, and agricultural fields. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the characteristics and behavior of voles, how to identify them, the signs of infestation, and effective prevention and control measures to protect your property.

2. Vole Identification: Appearance and Physical Traits

To effectively identify voles, it is crucial to understand their unique physical features that set them apart from other rodents. Some of the key traits include:

2.1 Size and Body Shape

Voles are small mammals, typically measuring 4 to 8.5 inches in length, including their short tails. They have stocky bodies, with a rounded and blunt head.

2.2 Fur and Coloration

Voles have dense fur that is soft to the touch. Their fur color varies depending on the species, ranging from light brown or gray to dark brown or black.

2.3 Eyes and Ears

Voles have small, beady eyes and partially hidden ears, which appear as small bumps beneath their fur.

3. Habitats and Behavior of Voles

Understanding the habitats and behavior of voles can help you recognize their presence and take appropriate action.

3.1 Natural Habitats

Voles are highly adaptable and can thrive in various habitats, such as grasslands, meadows, forests, and even urban areas. They typically prefer areas with dense vegetation, which provides cover and food sources.

3.2 Burrowing and Tunneling

Voles are excellent burrowers, creating intricate tunnel systems below ground. They also create above-ground runways through grass or snow, which are noticeable as well-worn paths about 2 inches wide.

3.3 Diet and Feeding Habits

Voles are primarily herbivorous, feeding on grasses, seeds, roots, bulbs, and bark. They can cause significant damage to plants, shrubs, and trees, especially during winter when food sources are scarce.

3.4 Reproduction

Voles reproduce rapidly, with females giving birth to multiple litters per year, each containing 3 to 6 young. This fast reproductive rate contributes to their capacity to cause extensive damage in a short period.

4. Vole Damage and Signs of Infestation

Identifying vole damage and signs of infestation early is crucial in preventing long-term damage to your property. Some common indications include:

4.1 Surface Runways

Look for well-defined paths through grass or snow, typically about 2 inches wide, as these are indicative of vole activity.

4.2 Burrow Entrances

Vole burrow openings are often hidden beneath vegetation or debris, but they can be recognized by small, circular holes approximately 1.5 inches in diameter.

4.3 Damage to Plants and Trees

Voles are notorious for causing damage to plants, shrubs, and trees. Signs of their feeding habits include gnawed roots and stems, chewed bark at the base of trees, and girdling, which can ultimately kill the plant.

4.4 Uneven Ground and Raised Soil

Vole tunneling activity can cause the ground to become uneven, with raised soil or mounds indicating their burrow systems.

5. Prevention and Control Measures

Implementing effective prevention and control measures can help protect your property from vole damage. Some recommended strategies include:

5.1 Habitat Modification

Remove or reduce dense vegetation, debris, and ground cover to make the area less attractive to voles. Mow lawns regularly and maintain a buffer zone of gravel or crushed rock around gardens and trees.

5.2 Fencing and Barriers

Install fencing or underground barriers around gardens and trees to prevent voles from accessing plants and roots. Use hardware cloth or other rodent-proof materials, with a minimum height of 12 inches above ground and at least 6 inches buried below ground.

5.3 Repellents

Apply commercial vole repellents, containing ingredients like castor oil, to discourage voles from inhabiting the area. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application and reapply as needed, especially after rain.

5.4 Trapping

Use live traps or snap traps to capture voles, placing them near active runways or burrow entrances. Check traps daily and relocate or dispose of trapped voles according to local regulations.

6. Professional Vole Removal Services

In cases of severe infestation or persistent vole problems, consider hiring a professional wildlife control company. These experts have the knowledge, tools, and experience to effectively remove voles and implement long-term prevention measures.

6.1 Expert Assessment

Professional wildlife control technicians can accurately assess the extent of your vole problem, identify damage, and determine the most effective removal and prevention methods.

6.2 Safe and Humane Removal

Professionals are trained in safe and humane vole removal techniques, minimizing the risk of injury to both humans and animals.

6.3 Prevention and Exclusion

Expert technicians can implement comprehensive prevention and exclusion strategies, such as habitat modification, exclusion barriers, and repellents, to protect your property from future infestations.

By understanding the characteristics, behavior, and signs of vole infestation, and implementing effective prevention and control measures, you can protect your property from damage and maintain a healthy outdoor environment. In cases of severe infestation, professional vole removal services are an invaluable resource for ensuring long-term protection.



 

All About Animals …

Suspendisse nec congue purus. Aenean eu justo sed elit dignissim aliquam. Suspendisse nec congue purus. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos himenaeos.

  • RATS

  • SQUIRRELS

  • RACCOONS

  • OPOSSUMS

  • SNAKES

  • BATS

  • WILDLIFE REMOVAL



 
 
 

How to get rid of voles in your yard

The Definitive Guide to Eliminating Moles from Your Yard

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction

  2. Understanding Moles and Their Behavior

  3. How to Identify Mole Activity

  4. Proven Mole Control Methods

    • Trapping

    • Repellents

    • Poisonous Baits

    • Natural Predators

  5. Preventative Measures for Long-Term Mole Control

  6. Conclusion


Introduction

Moles can be a significant nuisance to homeowners, wreaking havoc on lawns and gardens. This comprehensive guide will provide you with expert insights into mole behavior, identification, and the most effective control methods. We will also discuss long-term prevention strategies to keep your yard mole-free.


Understanding Moles and Their Behavior

Moles are small mammals that primarily live underground, feeding on insects, grubs, and worms. They have a keen sense of smell and are highly adapted to their subterranean lifestyle, boasting powerful forelimbs for digging. While they are generally harmless to humans, moles can create unsightly tunnels and mounds, damaging your lawn in the process.


How to Identify Mole Activity

Recognizing mole activity is crucial for effective control. Key signs of mole presence include:

  • Raised ridges or surface tunnels

  • Cone-shaped mounds or molehills

  • Spongy, uneven lawn texture

  • Damaged plant roots


Proven Mole Control Methods

There are several approaches to mole control, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. We recommend combining methods for the best results.


Trapping

Trapping is a highly effective method for capturing and removing moles from your yard. There are various trap designs, including:

  • Scissor traps

  • Harpoon traps

  • Choker loop traps

To set a trap, locate an active tunnel and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Check traps daily, and relocate or adjust them as necessary.

Repellents

Repellents are useful for deterring moles from your property. Available in granular or liquid form, repellents typically use castor oil as the active ingredient. Apply repellents according to the product's directions, focusing on areas with noticeable mole activity.

Poisonous Baits

Poisonous baits, such as bromethalin or zinc phosphide, can be an effective means of mole control. Place baits in active tunnels, ensuring they are inaccessible to children and pets. Always follow the product's instructions and safety guidelines.

Natural Predators

Encouraging natural predators, like owls and snakes, can help control mole populations. Install owl nesting boxes or create snake-friendly habitats to attract these beneficial predators.

Preventative Measures for Long-Term Mole Control

Preventing mole infestations is the key to maintaining a beautiful yard.

Implement the following long-term preventative measures to protect your yard from moles:

  • Maintain a healthy lawn: Regularly aerate, fertilize, and water your lawn to promote strong, deep root systems that are less attractive to moles.

  • Reduce food sources: Moles are attracted to lawns with abundant insects and grubs. Apply insecticides or employ natural pest control methods to minimize their food supply.

  • Create barriers: Install underground fencing or barriers around your yard or garden to deter moles from digging. Use galvanized hardware cloth or similar materials, buried at least 24 inches deep and extending 6 inches above the ground.

  • Utilize plants as natural repellents: Some plants, like marigolds, daffodils, and alliums, can deter moles due to their strong odors. Plant these species around your yard's perimeter as a natural defense.

Conclusion

Moles can be a challenging problem for homeowners, but with the right knowledge and strategies, you can effectively control and prevent these pests. By understanding mole behavior, identifying their presence, and employing a combination of control methods, you can reclaim your yard and maintain its beauty. Don't forget to implement long-term preventative measures, such as maintaining a healthy lawn, reducing food sources, and creating physical barriers to keep moles at bay.

 

All About Animals …

Suspendisse nec congue purus. Aenean eu justo sed elit dignissim aliquam. Suspendisse nec congue purus. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos himenaeos.

  • RATS

  • SQUIRRELS

  • RACCOONS

  • OPOSSUMS

  • SNAKES

  • BATS

  • WILDLIFE REMOVAL