Humane ways to rid your garden of vole infestations
25 June 2024 11:36
It looks like a cross between an otter and a hamster. Don't let its appearance fool you — this rodent is a pest. In a short time, it can destroy your crops. How can you get rid of a vole without harming it? You only need one thing, which you can buy at any pharmacy.
The vole is a small mammal from the hamster family. It can reach around 13 to 25 centimetres. It looks cute and innocent. Don’t be deceived by appearances—this is one of the most voracious garden pests. It feeds on roots, tubers, rhizomes, bulbs, and fruits, destroying plants.
Though this mammal is considered a pest, it is under partial species protection. You cannot harm or kill it. How can you get rid of a vole from the garden in a humane way? You only need one thing, which you can buy at any pharmacy.
How to recognise a vole?
The vole looks like a cross between a hamster, an otter, and a guinea pig. It measures 13 to 25 centimetres and weighs from about 30 grams to 600 grams. It lives from one to two years and leads a nocturnal lifestyle. It lives in tunnels, digs itself, and comes out after dark searching for food.
How do you recognise that a vole has settled in your garden? Pay attention to two things. The first is the ground. If small, flat mounds appear on it, it’s a sign that the pest has dug tunnels. The second thing is the plants. The vole feeds on shoots, tubers, and roots, causing them to wither visibly.
How to get rid of a vole from the garden?
The vole is one of the mammals that does not hibernate. It is active throughout the year. When it settles in the garden, it may stay there for up to two years, causing significant damage. How can you get rid of a vole from the garden? Traps or chemical agents are not an option, as the pest is under species protection.
The only solution is a natural rodent repellent. Voles cannot stand the smell of mint. Plant it in the garden, and the pest will quickly leave. If this method does not bring the desired effect, use the power of peppermint oil. You can buy it at any pharmacy for about £1.
How do you use it? Prepare a 1-litre spray bottle and fill it with water. Add two tablespoons of peppermint oil and mix thoroughly. The spray is ready to use. Spray it in the garden, and the vole will flee in panic.
