Every spring, I get calls from homeowners who think their lawn suddenly “died” over the winter. In many cases, what they are actually seeing is vole damage that was hidden under the snow for months. Voles are small, mouse like rodents that stay active all winter. When snow covers the ground, it creates a warm, protected tunnel system at the surface of the soil. Voles use this space to feed nonstop on grass, roots, bulbs, and bark without being exposed to predators. Once the snow melts, their feeding paths become obvious. You will see long, narrow trails of dead grass running through the lawn, often in winding or crisscross patterns. These trails are not deep holes like moles leave. Instead, the grass is clipped down to the soil, leaving a flattened runway look. In landscaped areas, you may also find chewed plant stems, girdled shrubs, or damage at the base of young trees. The damage usually looks worse than it really is. In many cases, the grass will recover with proper watering and fertilizing. However, the presence of voles means conditions around the home are attracting them. Thick thatch, heavy mulch, and ground cover close to the foundation all provide ideal shelter. Long term control starts by reducing that cover and breaking their habitat.



Do you have a pest problem and live in or near Grafton, Saukville, West Bend, Germantown, Sheboygan, or Milwaukee? Call (262) 261 3925