How to get rid of voles?

Controlling Vole Damage in Charlotte Lawns

Voles are small rodents that create extensive surface tunnel systems, damaging grass and creating unsightly runs. Unlike moles which tunnel for grubs, voles feed directly on grass and roots. The shallow surface tunnels cause more visible damage and require different control strategies than mole management.

Identifying Vole Damage

Vole damage appears as distinct surface runways—small trails of dead or removed grass creating paths across lawns. Voles are active year-round but most visible in fall and winter when surface activity is greatest. Damage is distinguished from mole damage by the pattern—moles create raised ridges; voles create shallow runway trails.

Vole Control Methods

1. Habitat Modification: Remove dense ground covers (ivy, heavy mulch) where voles hide. Keep grass at proper height to reduce cover. Remove debris piles and woodpiles where voles nest
2. Trapping: Snap traps or electronic traps placed in active runways effectively control populations. Check frequently and dispose of trapped voles humanely
3. Rodenticide Baiting: Rodent bait stations control voles but pose secondary poisoning risk to raptors. Use only if trapping doesn't provide adequate control
4. Predator Attraction: Encourage natural predators like hawks and owls through appropriate landscaping. Reduce rodenticide use that poisons predators

Lawn Recovery

Once voles are controlled, overseed damaged areas where grass has been eaten away. Thin lawns that lack competitive density are more attractive to voles—improving grass health through overseeding and proper care makes lawns less vulnerable to future vole colonization.