The Art of Mole Trapping - Using a Tube Trap
Preparation
The obvious difference when setting a tube trap is the length of the excavation needed. You will need to have found a straight section of run of sufficient length to place the tube trap.
Do not worry too much about tidying up in the bottom of the hole, but do make sure that the tunnel entrances are in good order. It is often helpful to dig down a little deeper, to give more space when working. This can be subsequently filled in.
Setting
First, check that the flaps are free to move. Next, check that the hole is the correct length It is better to be a little too large than too small, since otherwise you will cause a cave in when you place the trap.
Once you are sure the hole is OK, lower the trap into the hole, keeping it mostly vertical. Gently fit one end to one of the tunnels, making sure that the flared end covers the tunnel entrance evenly. If trap is miss-aligned the mole is more likely to be put off. Next rotate the tube down, until the other end aligns with the opposite tunnel. Hold it inplace while you pack some earth around the ends to hold it in place.
[photo to follow]
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Make sure that the tube is the right way up and that the flaps are hanging down. Finally, if there is a tell-tale hole, place a thin wand in it. When a mole enters, this will be knocked over and will alert you to a catch.
Seal and Cover
Because the tube is fully enclosed, not much covering is needed. Make sure that the ends are cemented in firmly, and if you have dug deep fill in the gap underneath the tube. Plug the hole where the wand exits, if there is one, with a little earth and you are done.
Remember to cover the trap if there is livestock in the area, or if you expect very heavy rain.
Checking
A tube trap needs very regular checking. You should aim to check every 12 hours, and at an absolute minimum every 24 hours. Any longer and you risk starving the mole to death, surely a cruel way to go.
If you have caught a mole, it will usually be obvious due to the scrabbling. Do not attempt to peek in, as he will probably escape and may give you a nasty nip.
Immediately take him to wherever you plan to release him and quickly separate the two halves of the tube. It is a good idea to wear long sleeves and thick gloves.
If the tube has been filled in, open it up and clear it with a stick. Clear out the tunnels again and reset it – this time be more careful to align it properly and not to dislodge earth into the openings.
If the trap is filled a couple of times, you may also try wedging the flaps open with small vertical twigs, inserted underneath the flaps. The mole will then not need to push on the flaps to get in. The twigs should easily be knocked aside as he enters.
[photo to follow]
Trap Maintenance
Virtually no maintenance is needed with a tube trap. If the flaps become stiff, you may need to clean out the hinges or remove any rust with a wire brush.
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