What’s Making Tunnels Under My Lawn?
The primary culprits behind tunnels under your lawn are small mammals, like voles, moles, and gophers, creating these subterranean pathways in search of food and shelter; however, insects like ground bees can also contribute to these structures. Identifying the specific tunnel-maker is crucial for effective control and prevention.
Introduction: The Mystery Beneath Your Feet
A pristine, green lawn is the envy of many homeowners. However, the sudden appearance of raised ridges, soft patches, or small holes can quickly transform that verdant paradise into a landscape of concern. What is making tunnels under my lawn? is a question that plagues many, leading to frantic internet searches and bewildered calls to pest control experts. Understanding the potential culprits and their behaviors is the first step towards reclaiming your lawn.
Identifying the Culprits: Moles, Voles, and Gophers
The most common tunnel-makers fall into three main categories: moles, voles, and gophers. While all three create tunnels, their motivations and the appearance of their tunnels differ significantly. Correct identification is paramount for effective treatment.
- Moles: These insectivores tunnel to find their primary food source: earthworms, grubs, and other soil-dwelling invertebrates.
- Voles: These rodents are primarily herbivores, feeding on grass roots, bulbs, and other plant material. Their tunnels often run along the surface, creating noticeable runways.
- Gophers: These rodents are larger than voles and moles, and they create extensive tunnel systems with numerous mounds of dirt. Their diet consists of roots, stems, and leaves of various plants.
Distinguishing Between Mole, Vole, and Gopher Damage
| Feature | Moles | Voles | Gophers |
|---|---|---|---|
| ——————- | ——————————————— | ————————————————– | ————————————————- |
| Tunnel Appearance | Raised ridges, often shallow | Surface runways, visible grass trails | Large mounds of dirt, deeper tunnels |
| Entrance Holes | Difficult to find, may have small mounds | Usually visible, often near vegetation cover | Distinct mounds with offset entrance holes |
| Diet | Earthworms, grubs, insects | Grass, roots, bulbs | Roots, stems, leaves |
| Damage to Plants | Indirect (disrupting roots) | Direct (eating roots and stems) | Direct (eating roots and stems, entire plants) |
| Overall Impact | Primarily cosmetic | Significant damage to lawns and gardens | Extensive damage, can undermine structures |
Other Potential Tunnel Makers: Insects
While mammals are the most frequent offenders, certain insects can also contribute to tunnel creation. Ground bees, for instance, may create small, individual tunnels for nesting, especially in dry, sandy soil. These tunnels are typically smaller and less extensive than those created by mammals. Understanding if insects might be contributing to the problem will help you answer the question, “What is making tunnels under my lawn?“
Why Are They Tunnelling? Understanding Their Motivations
The reasons behind the tunneling activity are primarily driven by the search for food and shelter.
- Food Source: Moles seek insects, voles seek grass and roots, and gophers seek roots and other plant material.
- Shelter: Underground tunnels provide protection from predators and harsh weather conditions.
- Reproduction: Tunnels also serve as nesting sites for raising young.
Control and Prevention Strategies
The best control strategy depends on the specific animal causing the damage.
- Moles: Trapping is generally the most effective method. Insecticides targeting grubs may reduce the mole’s food source, but this is often a less effective long-term solution.
- Voles: Habitat modification, such as removing dense vegetation and controlling weeds, can make your lawn less attractive to voles. Trapping and vole-specific baits are also options.
- Gophers: Trapping is often the most effective method. Gopher baits can also be used, but they should be handled with caution and placed directly into the tunnels.
- Insects: Insecticides may be necessary to control ground bees or other tunneling insects. However, consider the potential impact on beneficial insects before applying any chemicals.
When to Call a Professional
While some DIY methods can be effective, severe infestations or uncertainty about the cause of the tunnels may warrant professional assistance. Pest control experts have the experience and tools to accurately identify the pest and implement an effective control strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the raised ridges in my lawn caused by?
Raised ridges are most often caused by moles tunneling just beneath the surface. These tunnels are created as the moles search for earthworms and other insects. While the tunnels may be unsightly, they rarely cause significant damage to plants.
How can I tell the difference between vole and mole damage?
Vole damage typically appears as surface runways or trails of clipped grass, while mole damage is characterized by raised ridges. Voles also directly damage plants by eating their roots and stems, while moles primarily disrupt roots while tunneling.
Are gophers common lawn pests?
Gophers are more common in certain regions than others. They are more likely to be found in areas with sandy soil and abundant vegetation. Their presence is easily identified by the mounds of dirt they create.
Will getting rid of grubs eliminate my mole problem?
While reducing the grub population can help, moles also feed on earthworms and other soil invertebrates. Therefore, eliminating grubs alone may not completely solve the mole problem. Trapping is often a more effective solution.
Are there any natural ways to deter moles and voles?
Some homeowners have had success with repellents containing castor oil or garlic. Planting certain species of flowers, such as marigolds, also might help deter moles and voles. However, the effectiveness of these methods can vary.
Can tunneling damage the foundation of my house?
While moles and voles rarely cause structural damage, gophers can undermine foundations if their tunnels are extensive and close to the house. If you suspect gopher activity near your foundation, it is important to address the problem promptly.
What’s the best way to trap a mole?
The best way to trap a mole is to identify an active tunnel and set a specialized mole trap within the tunnel. There are several types of mole traps available, including scissor traps and harpoon traps. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when setting the trap.
How do I repair the damage caused by tunneling animals?
To repair mole and vole damage, carefully level the soil in the affected areas and reseed or sod as needed. For gopher damage, you may need to fill the tunnels with soil before leveling the ground.
Are pets at risk from mole or gopher baits?
Mole and gopher baits can be toxic to pets, so it’s crucial to use them carefully and strategically. Always place baits directly into the tunnels, away from pets and children. Consider using traps as a safer alternative.
Is it possible to completely eliminate moles and voles from my property?
Completely eliminating moles and voles can be challenging, as they can easily migrate from neighboring properties. However, by implementing effective control measures and maintaining a less attractive habitat, you can significantly reduce their population.
What is the best time of year to address tunneling issues?
The best time to address tunneling issues is typically in the spring or fall, when the animals are most active. Identifying and addressing the problem early can prevent further damage and make control more effective.
Why are there so many earthworms, grubs and bugs under my lawn that the moles, gophers and voles are feeding on?
A yard may have high earthworm, grub, and bug populations if the soil is rich in organic matter and moisture. Earthworms thrive in these conditions, which in turn attract other organisms who consume the earthworms. This provides ample food sources for animals that tunnel in your lawn. Regular soil testing and soil improvement are important to keep the balance in your lawn!