Do you have a well-maintained lawn, but suddenly little mounds of dirt appear everywhere? Many gardeners consider moles a nuisance and want to get rid of them as quickly as possible. But beware: Not everything is allowed! In Germany, moles are strictly protected, meaning numerous control methods are prohibited. Anyone who resorts to illegal means risks heavy fines. But what exactly is prohibited, why are moles protected, and what legal alternatives are there? Here you'll find out everything you need to know.
Prohibited methods for mole control
Because the mole (Talpa europaea) is considered a specially protected species in Germany, many control methods are prohibited. According to Section 44 of the Federal Nature Conservation Act (BNatSchG), it is prohibited to capture, injure, or kill moles. This means that the following measures are strictly prohibited:
- Poison bait: The use of poison to control moles is not only illegal but also dangerous for other animals and humans. Dogs, cats, or birds could accidentally ingest the poison and become seriously ill or even die.
- Lethal traps: There are various traps on the market designed to kill moles. However, the use of such traps is illegal and punishable by heavy fines.
- Natural gas or engine exhaust: Some garden owners try to flood mole burrows with gas or car exhaust to kill or drive the animals away. However, this method is not only illegal but also harmful to the environment and health.
- Drowning or digging out: Flooding the burrows or deliberately digging out and killing a mole violates its legal protection status.
Anyone who violates these regulations can expect severe penalties. Depending on the federal state, fines of several thousand euros can be imposed.
Why are moles protected?
The mole may be viewed by many gardeners as a nuisance, but it fulfills an important ecological function. Through its burrowing activity, it contributes to aeration and loosening of the soil. At the same time, it feeds on pests such as snails, grubs, wireworms, and other insect larvae that would otherwise attack plants. A single mole can consume up to 50 grams of insects per day, thus helping to maintain the biological balance in the garden.
Because the mole population has declined sharply in the past due to the intensive use of chemicals and the destruction of its natural habitat, it has been placed under species protection. This protected status is intended to ensure that these beneficial animals are not eradicated.
Sustainable and animal-friendly alternatives to eviction
Despite all the benefits, we understand that a mole isn't always welcome in the garden—especially when its burrowing creates unsightly mounds on the lawn. Fortunately, there are legal and sustainable ways to gently get rid of moles.
1. Mole grid & mole net – Effective barriers against moles
A long-term solution for gardens that need to remain permanently mole-free are underground barriers such as mole grids or mole nets . These are placed about 10 cm below the turf and prevent the moles from reaching the surface. The advantage: The soil remains loose and healthy, yet the lawn remains free of molehills.
Although installing a mole grid requires some effort, it is worth it in the long run, especially in newly planted gardens.
2. Mole repeller – Gentle expulsion through vibration or ultrasound
Another proven method is the use of mole deterrent devices . These devices emit vibrations or ultrasonic sounds at regular intervals, disturbing the mole and causing it to leave the area. Because moles have very sensitive senses, they find these disturbances unpleasant and seek out a quieter habitat.
For optimal results, several devices should be distributed throughout the garden. However, it's important to choose high-quality devices, as cheap ones often lack sufficient performance.
Conclusion: Patience pays off
Moles may seem like a nuisance at first glance, but they are valuable helpers in the garden and there are still some interesting facts you can learn about them.
Anyone who wants to get rid of them should do so legally and sustainably. The use of mole grids or mole deterrent devices is not only legal but also effective in the long term. Illegal methods, on the other hand, can not only be expensive but also harm the environment and other animals.
With a little patience and the right measures, you can keep your garden mole-free – without breaking the law!
