Voles may be small, but the damage they cause to lawns, gardens, and landscapes in Missouri can be surprisingly large. Often mistaken for mice or moles, voles are unique rodents with behaviors that can quickly turn a neat yard into a network of runways and chewed vegetation. Understanding how they operate—and whether to tackle the issue yourself or call in the pros—can make a big difference in protecting your property.
What Are Voles?
Voles are small, ground-dwelling rodents known for their short tails, stocky bodies, and ever-growing teeth. Sometimes called meadow mice or field mice, these critters thrive in grassy areas, gardens, and under shrubs. They're active year-round, day and night, and reproduce rapidly—making even a small infestation a potential big problem.
One of the most obvious signs of voles is the presence of narrow, surface runways that crisscross your lawn. These paths are often accompanied by burrow openings and gnawed vegetation, particularly around the base of shrubs or trees. Voles feed on roots, bulbs, bark, and grass—damaging ornamental plants and leaving behind dead patches in an otherwise healthy yard.
Vole Behavior: Why They’re So Destructive
Voles don't hibernate and remain active throughout the winter, feeding on bark and roots under the cover of snow. Their constant chewing can girdle young trees, killing them outright. They also build extensive underground tunnels and surface paths, which weaken soil structure and invite further pest problems.
Their secretive behavior and high breeding rate—females can produce multiple litters per year—mean that a few voles can quickly become a full-blown infestation if left unchecked.
DIY Vole Control: What You Can Try
Homeowners sometimes attempt to manage voles on their own, especially in the early stages of activity. DIY methods include:
-
Trapping: Mousetraps baited with peanut butter or apple slices can work when placed along active runways.
-
Repellents: Castor oil-based or capsaicin-based sprays may deter voles temporarily.
-
Habitat Modification: Mowing regularly, removing brush piles, and eliminating ground cover can reduce vole hiding spots.
-
Barrier Protection: Installing hardware cloth around the base of young trees and garden beds can offer some defense.
While these methods may offer short-term relief, they often fall short for widespread or persistent infestations. Voles are elusive, and DIY efforts can be time-consuming with inconsistent results.
When to Call in the Professionals
If you’ve noticed multiple burrow holes, increasing surface tunnels, or damage to trees and garden beds, it’s time to consider professional vole control. At Critter Control of SW Missouri, we offer proven solutions tailored to your property’s layout and vole population size.
Our trained technicians identify high-activity zones, implement targeted trapping or baiting strategies, and help you prevent future problems through habitat assessment and exclusion techniques. We use humane, environmentally responsible methods to safely manage the problem while protecting your lawn, garden, and peace of mind.
Why Expert Help Makes a Difference
Voles may be small, but managing them effectively requires more than guesswork. Professionals can accurately identify whether you're dealing with voles, moles, or another type of pest, ensuring the right treatment is used. They also have access to tools, products, and techniques that aren’t available in stores, allowing for more effective and efficient control. Most importantly, expert services focus on long-term solutions by addressing the root of the problem—not just the visible symptoms—helping to prevent future infestations and protect your landscape year-round.
Don’t Let Voles Take Over
Your yard is an investment, and voles can chip away at its health and appearance before you realize what’s happening. If you’ve seen the signs, don’t wait. DIY may offer a quick fix, but for real peace of mind, trust the team at Critter Control of SW Missouri. We're here to help you reclaim your landscape—safely, quickly, and thoroughly.