Though moles spend most of their lives underground, the damage they cause above ground can be surprisingly noticeable.

As they search for food, moles create tunnels that leave raised, winding paths across lawns and fields. While they don’t eat plants, their digging can disturb roots and uproot small vegetation. Some tunnels are temporary, while others may be used repeatedly.

Kansas State University wildlife expert Drew Ricketts notes that many homemade remedies—like chewing gum, noise devices, broken glass, bleach, windmills, and human hair—have failed to consistently control moles. Poison baits also don’t work since moles feed mainly on earthworms and grubs, not plant-based material. Even treating lawns for grubs won’t help, as earthworms remain a key food source.

According to Ricketts, traps are the most effective way to manage mole problems. There are three types: harpoon, choker, and scissor-jawed. All can work but may require practice.

He recommends identifying active tunnels by pressing down on several runs and checking a day later to see which ones are repaired. Set traps in those active runs, adjusting technique based on tunnel depth and trap type. If no moles are caught within three days, move the traps to a new location.