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Locate
a tunnel or mound that indicates recent mole activity.
(During dry periods, moles often stay inactive)
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With
a hand trowel, dig a circular or oval hole 6-8 inches in diameter and
deep enough to reach the base of the cross tunnels.
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Set
the trap by squeezing the coiled end and placing the ring
perpendicular, about 1¾ inches from the end of the tongs.
(figure 1a & b)
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|
Fig. 1a (top
view of
tongs)
Fig. 1b (top view of trap in set position) |
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Carefully clean out each tunnel with the end tongs of the set trap
until it can be freely inserted. Failure to clean the tunnel
adequately may cause the trap to become sprung and plugged.
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Place
the SET trap into the tunnel with the tongs pointing downward.
(figure 2)
 |
|
Fig. 2 (top
view) |
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Secure
trap by placing the ¼" dowel through the opening of the
four-coiled spring and into the soil so that the tip is just visible
above the ground but deep enough so that it will not be affected by
the lawnmower.
-
Repeat
steps 4 and 5 for the other tunnel, using a second trap.
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After
the traps have been properly set, take grass sod and place it
diagonally over the trap and opening of the tunnel. The grass blades
point toward the trap. Repeat the procedure for the other trap. Fill
in the hole with loose dirt. (figure 3)
 |
|
Fig. 3 (side
view) |
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Check
the traps every 2-3 days or after a rain. Remove the loose dirt and
then lift the sod to see if each trap contains a mole or if is
snapped.
-
If
the trap(s) are not snapped, then replace the cover as indicated in step 7.
