Voles

 What are voles?

Voles are small rodents related to gophers and rats. Voles are commonly called field mice or meadow mice. Voles are larger and fluffier than the average house mouse and grow to a length of four to eight inches. Their body shape is rather short and stocky for their size. Voles in the Aspen, CO area are usually gray to light brown in color with long, hairless tails. As a recap, that makes them about half again bigger than a mouse, but half the size of a wood rat. Voles also have faces that are not as narrow as a mouse or rat with small protruding eyes.

What are voles?

Voles are small rodents related to gophers and rats. Voles are commonly called field mice or meadow mice. Voles are larger and fluffier than the average house mouse and grow to a length of four to eight inches. Their body shape is rather short and stocky for their size. They're usually gray to light brown in color with long, hairless tails. As a recap, that makes them about half again bigger than a mouse, but half the size of a wood rat. Voles also have faces that are not as narrow as a mouse or rat with small protruding eyes.

Are voles dangerous?

While not a direct threat to humans, voles are some of the most destructive lawn pests that crop up every year in the United States, presenting a major threat to lawns, fruit trees, landscaping, and grain crops. In addition, these pests can introduce parasites onto properties when they invade and spread disease through their excrement.

Why do I have a vole problem?

Unlike many rodents, voles do not hibernate, and are active all throughout the year. During the spring and summer months, voles are most active due to the abundance of food outside. Some favorite treats of voles are grass seeds, new plant shoots, and bark. They will also eat small insects. If you have a lot of plants around your lawn, or are putting down new ground cover, be vigilant against these pests. Likewise, those with home gardens or field crops need to stay on guard against these destructive vermin.

Where will I find voles?

During the warmer months of the year, voles are commonly found foraging in fields and high grass. Voles rarely come into contact with humans, as much of their time is spent underground. Voles build complex tunnel systems which they use to forage and feed on the roots of plants.

How do I get rid of voles?

Because voles breed all year long underground, it can be difficult to eradicate them. As a lawn maintenance step, we recommend turning up the soil in gardens on a regular basis. This destroys vole tunnels and may help to move them out of your lawn. To get rid of them entirely, though, we recommend calling a reliable, professional service such as RAM Pest Control. Our technicians are up-to-date on the most current trends in wildlife control and exclusion services. We'll help keep your lawn in pristine condition for the most important months of the year.

How can I prevent voles in the future?

One of the best ways to deter voles is to keep your lawn trimmed quite short. Voles are secretive creatures that do not like to run in exposed areas. Keeping garden beds and shrubs trimmed and neat will also help discourage them. To keep voles from undermining newly planted trees and shrubs, keep mulch at least three feet away from their bases. Finally, consider scheduling a yearly preventative inspection to identify your home's pest risks. Call RAM to discuss your residential pest control or commercial pest management options.