The Art of Mole Trapping - Tools and Equipment
It is possible to catch moles with nothing but a spade and lots of patience. However, most of us simply don't have the time to stand like a statue waiting to smack the critter on the head, so fortunately there are a range of products out there to help.
Here is a list of pretty much everything you’ll need:
Here is a list of pretty much everything you’ll need:
MOLE TRAPS - Depending on the area you are trapping, you may need lots of these. For a small to medium-sized garden two will probably do, but for much larger areas you might need as many as 10-15 traps.
A PROBE - To find the mole run. This should be long enough that you don’t need to bend down to probe the ground, and it should also have a slightly bulbous tip; this will make if obvious when you break through into a run since it will ‘bump’ into the top of the run as you pull the probe out.
A SPADE - To uncover the mole run. Ideally this will be the same width as your trap, so that you only excavate a hole that is the size of the trap. If the hole is too big, you will have to re-build the sides of the hole so that it fits the trap.
A TROWEL - To clear out the bottom of the run. You should make sure that no soil has fallen down into the tunnel as this may either block the trap, or put the mole off. It will be easier if the trowel is of a narrow design so you can fit it down inside the run.
A TAMPER - To press down the bottom of the run and make sure it is smooth. This could be done with the trowel or the handle of your spade if the size is right.
A KNEEL PAD - When you are down setting the trap, you will often be kneeling on wet and/or muddy ground. There may also be knobbly or sharp stones, so for comfort and to protect your clothing, you should consider a kneel pad or knee protectors.
A KNIFE/SECATEURS - Sometimes, when you uncover a run, there may be roots in it. These should be cleared to make way for the trap. Make sure to cut them rather than pulling them out otherwise you will cave in the run.
TRAP MARKERS - Most commonly bought traps tend to be set below ground level, so it is a good idea to mark where you’ve put them. The Beagle EasySet Trap tends to sit on or very close to the surface, and is generally easily visible.
GLOVES - Purely for comfort and to keep your hands clean. They are also a good idea if you are going to pick up a dead mole, since they may carry diseases. Make sure you get a good thick pair, as they will give you the best protection against sharp stones or anything hidden in the soil. A thick pair will also help protect you against the sharp teeth of an angry mole if you are using a live capture trap.
