"Moles" Caught in Mouse Traps? They're Voles or Shrews—Here's the Full Vole Control Guide

Two "moles" caught in mouse traps. Expert said: moles don't enter mouse traps—these are voles or shrews. Proper ID is step one.

Vole control (comprehensive):

• Habitat modification: mow, remove bird feeders, 15-ft weed-free zones.
• Exclusion: ¼-inch hardware cloth fences, 12" high, buried 2–3"; tree guards.
• Repellents: thiram/hot sauce—short-term, not for edibles.
• Trapping: snap traps perpendicular to runways (3 per runway), peanut butter-oatmeal bait, covered boxes.
• Toxicants: zinc phosphide (restricted use, fall/spring best, pre-bait, bait stations).
• Fumigation: gas cartridges/aluminum phosphide—laborious, limited efficacy.

Integrated approach works best. Monitor constantly—populations rebound fast. See full guide.