Moles, mainly the eastern mole, are small mammals that live underground and are common all over Kentucky. They do best in loose, moist, well-drained soils. These insect-eaters measure 5 to 7 inches long, with soft velvety fur, wide paddle-like front feet, tiny eyes, and no outer ears—perfect for life below ground. You'll find them in lawns, gardens, golf courses, pastures, meadows, woodlands, and sandy spots near streams, with bigger numbers in the Bluegrass region's rich loamy soils. Moles live alone, stay active all year (most in spring and fall), and dig shallow tunnels near the surface for hunting food, plus deeper ones for nests and travel. They eat mostly earthworms, grubs, insects, and larvae—up to their own body weight each day—and can tunnel up to 100 feet in a single day. Breeding happens in February, with 2 to 5 young born in April after a 45-day pregnancy. Moles help by adding air to soil and controlling pests, but their digging often makes them pests in neat, cared-for areas. Moles cause problems mostly through their burrowing in homes, farms, and yards. Their surface tunnels and dirt mounds ruin the look of lawns, golf courses, and gardens, make mowing hard, create trip risks, and harm plant roots by exposing them or letting weeds take over. People often blame moles for eating bulbs, seeds, or roots, but they mainly eat insects—plant damage usually comes from voles or mice using the tunnels. Moles can carry parasites like ticks or fleas, which might spread diseases to pets or people, though direct risks are low; the tunnels can also draw in other pests. Damage to grass, landscaping, or crops (like in pastures) leads to costly fixes. Issues are worst in spring and fall or after rain, when moles dig more. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!