Vole. How to recognise a molehill?

Voles can be a nuisance to gardeners, destroying plants and lawns. How can you recognise their presence in the garden and distinguish molehills from those of other animals? In this article, you will learn how to effectively identify these rodents and how to protect your plants from their destructive effects. We also provide practical tips on how to recognise the molehill’s habitat and protect your garden, so that you can enjoy a beautifully maintained green space.

Recognising molehills

Mole hills are smaller than the more well-known molehills. They are usually flat and the soil is finer and less compacted. In addition, the soil is not thrown up in a conical shape, as in the case of mole activity, but is scattered more evenly. The European common vole is less active than the mole, which is why there may be fewer molehills in a given area.

Identifying molehills is important to prevent damage to the garden. It is worth paying attention to smaller holes in the ground, which can be masked by leaves or other elements of the environment. Mole-like creatures form networks of underground corridors that lead to hidden entrances to mounds, so close observation is essential. Unlike moles, mole-like creatures usually operate near the surface, making it easier to recognise their tracks.

Mole-like creature’s living environment

The European mole is a rodent that prefers moist, well-hydrated habitats that favour its activity. The natural environment of the European mole includes mainly wetlands, meadows, river banks and ponds, where the soil is soft and easy to dig. In the garden, the grubber usually chooses places that guarantee them adequate protection from predators and at the same time provide easy access to food. They like to inhabit areas close to composters, hedges and flowerbeds, where they can count on hiding places and an abundance of vegetation.

The basic conditions that a woodlouse prefers in a garden are:

• soil with adequate moisture, which allows for easier digging of corridors,
• abundance of food in the form of root crops and seeds,
• the presence of natural shelters, such as dense vegetation, bushes or piles of leaves,
• access to water, which could mean, for example, the proximity of a pond or a lake,
• quiet, less frequented areas, which reduce the risk of their presence being discovered.

By understanding the preferred habitat of the grub, you can take steps to limit its negative impact on your garden, ensuring protection for your green space.

Protecting your garden from the black vine weevil

Firstly, regularly mowing the lawn and removing leaves and branches will help to reduce the possibility of the black vine weevil creating habitats in the garden. It is also worth taking care to properly protect flowerbeds by using barriers in the form of fine mesh buried around the plants, which will make it difficult for rodents to access the roots. A popular solution is also to use natural repellents such as garlic or onions, whose smell the grubber avoids.

You can also fight the grub by installing special traps or sound and vibration repellents that will discourage rodents from staying in the garden. It is also worth considering natural allies such as hedgehogs or birds of prey, which can help reduce the grub population. For better plant protection, you can consider using garden preparations based on deterrent substances that are safe for plants but unpleasant for rodents. Remember to adapt your actions to the individual situation, which will allow you to effectively protect your garden from the grub and enjoy its beauty without worrying about damage.