Identifying Lawn Mounds and Holes in Southern Ohio

Small mounds (1-1.5" high, ¼-⅜" center holes) in southern Ohio lawns typically indicate ground-nesting insects or small mammals. Identification guides targeted management.

Most Likely Culprits

Diagnostic Steps

1. Observe at different times — note insect entry/exit
2. Check for clipped grass blades (vole runways)
3. Flood hole gently — see what emerges
4. Consult OSU Extension fact sheets for Ohio-specific ID

Management Philosophy

Most mound-makers are beneficial or harmless. Tolerate unless:

• Vole damage to plants/trees (use hardware cloth guards, trap)
• Ants farming aphids on ornamentals (treat aphids, not ants)
• Mounds create genuine hazard (level individually)

Blanket insecticide application destroys the soil food web. Target only confirmed pests.