General Characteristics:
- Also called ‘meadow mice’, this is the most common mole in North America
- Small, plump rodent with a chestnut-brown mixed with black fur covering their backs and grey to white fur on their underside
- They can grow to 5-7 inches in length and weigh 1-2 ounces
- The moles are easily identified by their large outward feet and pointed claws
- The pointed nose is also a very distinguishable characteristic
Reproduction:
- Breeding all year long with 5-10 litters per year ranging from 2-9 young per litter
- 21 day gestation period
- Females are able to mate as soon as young are born
- The young grow very quickly and can reproduce themselves in about 1-2 months.
Signs of Infestation:
- Professionals can sometimes mistake meadow vole damage from mole damage
- Voles are often the cause for grass damage by surface tunnels under the snow during winter months
- Voles create surface tunnels for runways versus moles which create tunnels beneath the soil
Control Techniques:
- Several methods available for control, the most effective would be mechanical mouse traps used commonly for house mice. A series of these devices set strategically at 10 ft intervals at right angles in conjunction with runways.
- Glue boards or live catch mouse traps can be used strategically for control
- For large infestations outdoors, several anticoagulant baits can be effective if used in conjunction with label recommendations
Please click here to contact a Focus Pest Control professional to inquire about further treatments for this pest species.
References:
Benett, Gary W., et.al.. Truman’s Scientific Guide to Pest Control Operations. Duluth: Advanstar
Communications, 1988. Pp. 357-359.
Neuburger, T. 1999. "Microtus pennsylvanicus" (On-line), Animal Diversity Web. Accessed May 15, 2009
at http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Microtus_pennsylvanicus.html
Disclaimer:
The Focus Pest Control ‘Pest Library’ is an educational resource written largely to educate the general public about common pests in Ontario. The Focus ‘Pest Library’ does not include all species in Ontario, nor does it include the most recent scientific data about species we describe. Though we edit our accounts for accuracy, we cannot guarantee all information in those accounts. While Focus Pest Control staff and contributors provide references to books and websites that we believe are reputable, we cannot necessarily endorse the contents of references beyond our control.
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