Top mole traps to eliminate garden pests quickly and humanely

Moles are little animals that can create big problems in gardens and lawns. They dig tunnel underground to find food, such as earthworms and grubs. Although moles do not eat plants or grass, their underground digging can harm roots, create raised paths and leave piles of soil that damage the appearance of a lawn. This often causes frustration for homeowners and gardeners, along with extra work and repair costs.

Not all moles are so simple to remove. Some methods aren’t effective and might even cause harm to the environment or animals. The better alternative is to use the proper type of mole traps. Quality mole traps can put a quick end to moles safely and humanely. If used correctly, these traps work to keep the garden safe without causing harm to pets, children or  the environment.

Mole Behavior and Garden Damage

Moles are tiny, fur-covered mammals that live underground. Their powerful forefeet are paddle shaped and help them burrow through dirt easily. They have poor vision, but an excellent sense of touch and smell so they use these to locate food.

Mole dig tunnels to find insects, primarily earthworms and grubs. The tunnels may be relatively near the surface or well below it. Shallow tunnels are frequently visible as raised lines in the grass, while deeper ones are more difficult to detect. Some of these tunnels are temporary, used only once, while others become main thoroughfares that the moles return to again and again.

Some moles actually can be beneficial. Feeding on harmful insects like grubs can lower damage from other pests. Their digging will also aerate the soil, which can enhance drainage. But mostly they only cause harm. Moles force their way upward, pushing soil into mounds known as molehills, and disrupt plant roots while burrowing, potentially injuring grass and garden plants. This gives lawns a messy appearance, and damage that isn’t fixed can result in dead patches.

Humane vs Lethal Control Methods

When people are trying to get rid of moles, they're choosing between humane options and deadly traps. Each option has its pros and cons, and the best choice depends on personal values and the specific situation in the garden.

Live-Release Traps

Humanoid mole traps are mole traps that don't kill the moles. The mole can then be safely released, far from harm. This approach appeals to those who don’t want to kill animals. But it involves regularly checking the traps ideally every few hours to avoid stressing and injuring the mole. And moving them is not always successful, because moles may find it tough to survive in new territory, or can return, she said.

Quick-Kill Traps

Killer traps like scissors, plunger, and choker-style traps are meant to quickly and painlessly kill moles when they’re triggered. When taken properly, it can be a fast and efficient way to halt damage. Though these traps are not humane, as in keeping the mole alive, many people feel they are an ethical choice because there is no prolonged suffering.

Natural Deterrents

Other gardeners would rather not use traps at all and are interested in natural ways to deter moles. One way to repel moles is with castor oil-based repellents that make the dirt undesirable to moles, yet do not actually harm them. Placing particular plants like marigolds or daffodils can also help since moles are known to dislike them. There are also other options, among them motion-activated devices that produce vibrations or sounds under the ground.

Mole Trap Types

There are moles traps of different kinds, and they all have a different design, pros and cons. There is no 'best' it's more a matter of preference and the conditions in the garden and whether user want a humane mole traps or lethal method. Here is a simple guide to the most common and effective types.

1. Scissor Traps

Scissor mole trap instructions have spring-loaded jaws that close with a snap when set off by the movement of the mole in the tunnel.

Pros

• Highly successful in rapidly dispatching moles.
• Simple and sturdy design.
• Easy to set and use.

Cons

• Death trap; not humane for those who want humane.
• Involves dealing with the dead mole.

2. Tunnel (Duffus) Traps

This tunnel trap (half-pipe profile) is positioned in a tunnel. The trap is automated when the mole pops out there.

Pros

• Reusable and durable.
• A hair trigger just makes it easy to shoot off.
• Recommended by pros .

Cons

• It needs to be positioned properly in an active burrow to function.
• It might require some time and effort to be comfortable with it.

3. Choker (Nash) Traps

Choker (Nash) traps incorporate a wire loop around the mole that tightens around the body of the mole when the trap is triggered.

Pros

• Provides a fast and clean kill.
• No mess; safer to handle.
• Safe to use in the garden with children.

Cons

• It might not get a mole as quickly as other trap styles.
• Requires exact positioning to perform well.

4. Plunger (Victor) Traps

And when activated, a strong plunger drives down into the burrow and kills the mole instantly.

Pros

• Quick and efficient mole removal tools.
• Durable structure feature.
• Great for straight tunnels.

Cons

• Costs a little more than scissor traps.
• Needs hard soil to make it work.

5. Live-Release Traps

Live release traps don't harm the mole, and then user can take it to a safe area away from your garden.

Pros

• Humane solution; does not harm the mole.
• Great for anyone looking to eliminate pests without killing them.

Cons

• Since the mole is stressed or injured, their traps need to be checked frequently.
• It’s a hassle to move around.
• There may also be regulations in some locations about where wildlife can be released.

Top Mole Traps to Eliminate Garden Pests

Growcycle provides great mole traps designed to suit different preferences from quick-kill plunger traps to wire-loops and even more humane mole traps for delicate parts of the backyard.

1. GONZO Steel Plunger Mole Trap

The GONZO Steel Plunger Mole Trap is a powerful and reliable mole trap. When struck, it operates a spring loaded, heavy-duty plunger that is forced down into the mole tunnel.

This design kills swiftly and cleanly, and will be perfect for any gardeners who need to act fast.

• Solid steel construction with rust-resistant powder coating.
• Easy to set up by placing it directly in active mole tunnels.
• This is for heavy infestations and outdoor applications (cases).

This trap is known for its speed and effectiveness, working fast or at times if user have high mole activity.

2. GONZO Wire Mole & Gopher Trap (2-Pack)

This trap features a durable, weather-resistant stainless-steel wire loop and scissor design with an easy set mechanism that makes setting mole traps much easier without the use of harmful chemicals.

The loop tightens on the animal when it runs through the tunnel, killing it quickly.

• It comes with a 2-pack for more value.
• Comes with a tether for quick retreat from the tunnel.
• Reusable up to 300 times, firm, durable and safe for repeat use.

The design of it makes it a good option for most homeowners who want an affordable and low maintenance system.

3. GONZO Surefire Mole & Gopher Trap Bulk Small

The Surefire Mole & Gopher Trap is a small but mighty product made to fit into narrower tunnels approximately 2.25 inches wide.

Once activated, the powerful spring action closes the jaws rapidly.

• Made of steel with a black powder coat finish.
• Perfect for small or low tunnels.
• Available in bulk packaging and ideal for larger sized properties or repeat usage.

This trap is ideal for easy placement in smaller mole runs and comes with instructions on setting.

4. Victor 2pk Quicket Mouse Trap

While primarily designed for mice, the Victor Quicket trap can also be used in mole control for lawns, particularly in narrow tunnels or for homeowners who need an easy-to-set, secure trap.

• Safe-set construction reduces the occurrence of misfires.
• Easy to set with one click by hand or foot.
• Enclosed bait hood improves catch success and reduces mess.

This attractively designed trap is safer for use around children and pets, and is a great idea to use as a supplement trap with other mole removal tools when tunnel rounds are brief.

5. Victor Deadset Mole Trap

Victor Deadset Mole Trap is an easy to use mole trap that saves time and work.

It is equipped with a spring operated mechanism with an extra large gated activating plate which is housed directly in the tubing.

• The ergonomic handle is easy to insert and remove.
• Does a good job for surface tunnels of shallow depth.
• Ensures a clean, immediate response.

This trap is well-suited for casual gardeners and professionals alike, offering a balance between power, ease of use, and affordability.

How to Choose the Right Mole Trap for the Garden

There are a few factors that the best mole trap for yard must meet. Each garden is unique, and the proper trap should correspond to individual requirements, whether related to soil conditions, tunnel location, safety concerns, or personal values.

1. Soil Type

Soil type plays a big role in how well a trap works. Some traps work better in firm, compact soil, while others need softer ground.

• Firm soil: Plunger and scissor mole traps tend to be most effective as they require a firm base to keep them in place.
• Loose or sandy soil: Wire-based traps or loop-style traps (such as the GONZO Wire Trap) can be easier to set and ensure secure deployment.

2. Tunnel Depth

The moles construct both surface tunnels and main deeper tunnels. Trap use may be influenced by the category of tunnel users. 

• Surface tunnels: Traps (caches) like the Victor Deadset are well-suited because they are made to push down directly into shallow runs.
• Deep tunnels: For tunnels deeper down, wire loop or choker-style traps like the GONZO Wire Mole Trap or Duffus-style traps work best.

Before placing a trap, lower raised ridges and observe which ones are rebuilt the next day. This could be useful for detecting active tunnels.

3. Safety Around Pets and Children

Trap safety is a huge issue if there are pets or children who play in the yard.

• Opt for traps with covered or concealed triggers (like the Victor® Quik the KT® trap) to minimize the potential for unintended harm.
• Steer clear of the way out, open scissors or plunger traps when not located in closed up or boxed-off spots.

Instructions should always be followed closely, and users should set the traps in places where they are least likely to be disturbed.

4. Frequency of Use and Reusability

For those who encounter moles frequently or live in high-activity mole regions, a reusable, long-lasting trap could save money and hassle in the long run.

• Traps such as the GONZO Surefire or Wire Trap are constructed to be reusable.
• Lightweight plastic traps might wear out more quickly especially with heavy use.

Investing in a quality trap may be more cost-effective in the long run.

Setting and Placing Mole Traps

Placing and setting the traps correctly is crucial to catching moles successfully. Discovering active tunnels and then setting traps correctly can make the process of gopher control quicker and more successful.

Finding Active Tunnels

Moles make a lot of tunnels, but only use some of them often. Traps are best installed in the tunnels that they use most often.

• Press down on the tunnel's bumpy areas with a foot. Wait a day and see if sections pop back up.
• Walk slowly around the lawn or garden. If the ground feels mushy or spongy, that may mean recent mole activity below.

Proper Trap Installation

Once in the presence of an active tunnel, the player must rig the trap properly. A well set trap is more likely to catch a mole.

• Position the trap so it is level and stable in the tunnel. If it is tilted or too loose, it may not work well.
• After setting the trap, dust it with loose soil, grass or chipboard. This helps block sunlight without preventing the trap from working. Don’t press down too hard.
• Mark where the trap is using a small stick, flag or other marker. This will make it easier to inspect later as well as prevent accidents.

The Bottom Line

Moles are tiny little critters, but they can do quite a lot of damage to gardens and lawns. Selecting the best mole trap is crucial to remove them quickly and safely. Choosing the right mole trap is very important to get rid of them quickly and safely. Whether deploy a mole-killing trap or a mole-catching variation, placing the contraption in the right spot is what matters most.

Check Growcycle for the best mole trap for yard suitable for various requirements. These traps make it easier for the gardener to protect their lawn and deal with moles in the easiest and most successful way possible.

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.

About the Author

Victor Miller

Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, specializing in sustainable agriculture. With a passion for storytelling, he highlights the latest trends, innovations, and practices that promote ecological balance and responsible farming.