Voles - Knowledgebase Question

Brooklyn Park, Mi
Avatar for kstaz20
Question by kstaz20
March 21, 2010
How do i get rid of voles in my yard? My yard (especially last year) is extremely lumpy and uneven and the critters have holes all around the yard. Mowing is a pain with all of the lumps! I've seen a few of them...small, black, pointy nose and they come out around dusk. please help! :^)


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Answer from NGA
March 21, 2010
Populations of voles are controlled in the wild by owls, snakes, foxes and cats. One method of control is by trapping. A mousetrap baited with peanut butter or an apple slice works well. As for the lumpy lawn, you can usually correct the problem. Probably the least expensive solution is to spread top soil over the low spots to help level the yard. You can spread it right over any grass that is growing in these areas. The grass will eventually grow through the topsoil. If you want it to green up sooner you can broadcast grass seeds over the top soil. I've tackled a similar project and it isn't too difficult except for hauling the top soil (I used a wheelbarrow). I used a shovel to drop soil over the low spots, raked it around and then checked the level by dragging a 6' 2"X4" over the lawn. When I was satisfied I had filled in all the holes and ruts, I reseeded, sprinkled a thin layer of peat moss over the reseeded areas to help keep the grass seeds moist. Grass will sprout in 7-10 days if kept from drying out. In 4-6 weeks your lawn should look great. Best wishes with your lawn!

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