Hello Susan,

Thanks for reaching out to the UNH Extension Infoline.

The first step in managing a mole or vole problem is to make a positive identification.

Moles are subterranean insectivores (not rodents) that are rarely seen above ground. Often, the way you'll know you have moles is the existence of small mounds of soil in your lawn. UMD Extension fact sheet on moles.

Voles are rodents that resemble mice and feed on bulbs, tubers, seeds, roots, and bark. They tend to make tunnels in between snow and the surface of the ground. These tunnels are especially visible after the snow melts in spring.

Check out this resource for more information on identification- "Mole or Vole" UNH Extension

Moles, being insectivores, do not typically damage vegetable or ornamental gardens. They can actually help control lawn and garden insect pests while aerating the soil as they dig their underground tunnels. Voles, on the other hand, are more destructive to your gardens by feeding on flower bulbs, root vegetables such as carrots and potatoes, and will chew on orchard tree roots and bark.

If you decide that control is needed, trapping these critters is the most effective method. For voles, a simple mouse trap baited with apples and placed near their tunnels can work well. For moles, try to find the freshest mound or mounds, step on it to flatten it out and then see where the soil pops back up the next day. That will tell you that there is an active mole nearby. Place multiple harpoon-type traps nearby the active tunnel.

Here is some more information about moles and voles-

"Pesky Winter Critters (fact sheet)" UNH Extension

"Managing Voles in New Hampshire Orchards and Highbush Blueberries" UNH Extension (This has a lot of good general information about voles despite being focused on orchards)