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Rodents

Moles

Scalopus aquaticus

Danger Level: 1/5Updated September 2026 · Boise, ID

IdentificationHow to Identify Moles

Quick Answer

Moles are easily identified by their large, paddle-like front feet designed for digging. They have pointed snouts, tiny eyes (nearly hidden), no visible ears, and velvety dark fur.

Full identification notes

Unlike rodents, moles are insectivores related to shrews.

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Moles Behavior & Habits

Understanding how moles behave helps prevent infestations

Moles spend nearly their entire lives underground, creating extensive tunnel networks.

More about their habits

They eat earthworms, grubs, and insects, consuming 70-100% of their body weight daily. Active year-round, they dig deeper tunnels in winter and shallower feeding tunnels in warmer months.

Moles Risks & Dangers

What moles can do to your health and property

Health Risks

Moles pose no direct health risks and rarely surface.

Property Damage

Mole tunneling damages lawns and gardens by creating raised ridges and mounds.

Full health and property details

Health Risks

They don't carry diseases of concern to humans.

Property Damage

Their tunnels can undermine plant roots, disrupt irrigation systems, and create trip hazards. However, they also eat lawn-damaging grubs.

Signs of Moles Infestation

Look for these indicators in your home

Signs You Have Moles

What homeowners spot first

  1. Raised ridges (surface tunnels) across lawn
  2. Volcano-shaped mounds of loose soil
  3. Soft, spongy areas in lawn
More signs to look for
  1. Plants wilting due to disturbed roots
  2. Visible tunnel openings

Moles in Boise & the Treasure Valley

Moles are common throughout the Treasure Valley, especially in areas with rich, moist soil and healthy lawns.

More on what we see locally

Irrigated properties attract earthworms, which attract moles. Spring and fall are peak activity periods when mole damage is most visible.

Our Solution

How We Handle Moles

What our approach looks like

Trapping in active tunnels is the most reliable way to control moles.

Our full approach

Grub control may cut their food supply a little, and repellents only give temporary relief. Call (208) 297-7947 and we'll tell you whether your mole problem is something we handle or connect you with a trusted specialist.

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How to Prevent Moles

Steps you can take to reduce the risk of infestation

  1. Reduce lawn watering (fewer earthworms)
  2. Control grub populations
  3. Use castor oil-based repellents
More prevention steps
  1. Install underground barriers in small areas
  2. Maintain well-drained soil

Moles Questions Answered

Common questions about identification, prevention, and treatment

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Do moles eat plants?

Quick answerNo.

Moles are insectivores that eat earthworms, grubs, and insects. Plant damage often attributed to moles is usually caused by voles using mole tunnels. Moles may incidentally disturb plant roots while tunneling.

Will killing grubs eliminate moles?

Quick answerGrub control may reduce mole activity but won't eliminate them.

Moles primarily eat earthworms, which are beneficial and impossible to eliminate. Trapping is the most reliable control method.

Are moles beneficial?

Quick answerYes and no.

Moles aerate soil and eat lawn-damaging grubs. However, their tunneling damages lawns and gardens. The trade-off depends on your tolerance for cosmetic lawn damage.

Think You Have Moles?

Call and we'll talk through your options. We usually get out within 24 to 48 hours.

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