How can I get rid of rats and moles? - briefly
Employ snap traps and sealed bait stations («snap traps», «bait stations») to eliminate rodents, and install underground barriers or mole‑catching traps («mole traps») to eradicate moles. Seal all entry points and keep the garden free of debris to prevent reinfestation.
How can I get rid of rats and moles? - in detail
Effective control of rodent and mole infestations requires an integrated approach that combines habitat modification, exclusion techniques, and targeted removal methods.
Habitat modification reduces the attractiveness of the property. Eliminate food sources by storing grain, pet food, and compost in sealed containers. Trim vegetation close to building foundations, remove debris piles, and repair leaking pipes to eliminate water sources. Maintain a clean yard, regularly mow grass, and keep shrubbery well‑trimmed to discourage burrowing.
Exclusion measures prevent entry. Install steel‑wool or copper mesh around vents, gaps around doors, and openings in the foundation. Use heavy-duty sealing compounds to close cracks larger than ¼ inch. For underground entry points, lay a layer of hardware cloth (½‑inch mesh) at least 12 inches deep around the perimeter of structures.
Targeted removal strategies differ for each pest.
Rats
- Snap traps placed along walls, behind objects, and near suspected runways. Position traps perpendicular to the wall, baited with peanut butter or dried fruit.
- Electronic traps delivering a quick, humane kill.
- Live‑capture cages, followed by relocation at least 5 miles from the original site, complying with local regulations.
- Professional bait stations using anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides, sealed to prevent non‑target exposure.
Moles
- Mechanical barriers: install a 24‑inch deep underground fence of hardware cloth around garden beds or lawns, extending 12 inches above ground.
- Trapping: use mole‑specific scissor‑jaws or harpoon traps placed in active tunnels, identified by fresh surface mounds.
- Soil vibration devices: battery‑operated units emit low‑frequency pulses that disrupt mole activity, requiring placement every 10‑15 feet.
- Repellents: apply granular castor‑oil formulations to the soil surface, re‑applying after heavy rain.
Monitoring and maintenance ensure long‑term success. Conduct regular inspections for new burrows, droppings, or gnaw marks. Replace worn traps, refresh bait, and repair any newly formed entry points promptly. When infestations persist despite these measures, engage a licensed pest‑control professional to assess and implement advanced eradication techniques.