What is the Difference Between Mole and Vole?

Moles and voles are both small, burrowing mammals that can cause damage to lawns and gardens, but they have distinct differences in their appearance, diet, and burrowing habits. Here are the key differences between moles and voles:

Diet: Moles are carnivores, consuming insects, grubs, and earthworms, while voles are vegetarians, eating the roots and stems of plants.

Appearance: Moles have an elongated head and snout, small eyes, no external ears, and paddle-shaped feet with prominent digging claws. Voles, on the other hand, resemble field mice with short tails, compact heavy bodies, small eyes, and partially hidden ears. They have prominent orange teeth for gnawing plant roots and stems.

Burrowing Habits: Moles are expert diggers, creating volcano-shaped hills in the lawn and tunneling at a rate of 18 feet per hour. Voles burrow below the surface, creating underground tunnels in the form of small holes, usually at the base of a tree. They also create runways on the surface, which can make a lawn look unsightly.

Damage: Moles can cause damage by consuming a large amount of their body weight in insects, grubs, and earthworms each day. Voles damage trees and shrubs by burrowing into their root systems, causing young specimens to experience die-back or to begin to lean. They also gnaw at the base of a tree or shrub, especially in winter.

Knowing the difference between moles and voles is essential for controlling their populations, as traps are the preferred method for removal, and the type of bait used depends on the species.

Comparative Table: Mole vs Vole

Here is a table comparing the differences between moles and voles:

Moles and voles are both small mammals that live underground and can cause damage, but they have distinct differences in appearance, diet, and behavior.