How to Keep Moles Away from Your Swimming Pool: Tips and Tricks

Do you enjoy spending time around your swimming pool, but find that pesky moles are ruining your peaceful oasis? Are you tired of constantly having to clean up their mess and repair the damage they cause? If so, you’re in luck. In this article, we’ll be sharing tips and tricks on how to keep moles away from your swimming pool, so you can relax and enjoy your backyard retreat.

Moles are small mammals that can cause significant damage to your yard and swimming pool area. They create underground tunnels, which can compromise the structural integrity of your pool and even cause leaks. Additionally, their presence can attract other unwanted animals, such as snakes and rodents. Fortunately, there are several effective methods you can use to keep moles away from your swimming pool.

From installing physical barriers to using natural predator urine, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep moles away for good. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to create a mole-free environment around your swimming pool. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!

If you want to enjoy your swimming pool without worrying about mole damage, keep reading to learn more about effective mole prevention methods.

Install a Physical Barrier

If you’re tired of seeing those unsightly mole hills around your swimming pool, installing a physical barrier might be your best bet. There are different types of barriers that you can install to keep the pesky creatures away from your pool. One of the most popular ones is the underground wire mesh barrier that you can install around the perimeter of your pool. By doing so, you’ll be blocking the mole’s access to the area, preventing them from damaging the area around the pool.

Another option is to install a trench barrier. This method involves digging a trench around the perimeter of the pool and then installing a mesh barrier. The idea is to create an underground barrier that will make it difficult for moles to burrow underneath and reach your pool area. Trench barriers are an effective way to prevent moles from invading your pool area, but they can be costly and time-consuming to install.

If you’re looking for a more natural approach, planting a barrier of specific plants around your pool area can help. Some plants, such as marigolds and alliums, contain compounds that moles dislike. Planting a barrier of these plants around your pool area can help to deter moles from entering the area. Plus, they’ll add a beautiful touch to your pool area.

Chicken Wire Fence

1. Measure the Area: The first step is to measure the area around the swimming pool where you want to install the fence.

2. Buy Chicken Wire: Buy enough chicken wire to cover the measured area plus extra for overlapping and attaching the wire to posts or stakes.

3. Install Fence Posts: Dig holes for the fence posts and install them at regular intervals along the perimeter of the area. Make sure the posts are level and sturdy.

4. Attach Chicken Wire: Attach the chicken wire to the fence posts using strong wire or cable ties. Be sure to overlap the wire and attach it securely to prevent moles from squeezing through any gaps.

5. Create an Entrance: Create an entrance by leaving a gap in the fence that can be opened and closed. This will allow you to access the pool area easily while still keeping the moles out.

6. Maintain the Fence: Regularly check the fence for any damage or gaps and repair them immediately to ensure that moles can’t get in.

A chicken wire fence is an effective way to keep moles away from your swimming pool. By following these steps, you can install a sturdy and secure fence that will prevent moles from burrowing into your pool area.

Hardware Cloth

Hardware cloth is another material that can be used to install a physical barrier around your swimming pool area. It is made of sturdy galvanized wire and comes in various mesh sizes. Hardware cloth can be buried a few inches below the ground and extended above the soil to form a fence.

When installing hardware cloth, it is important to make sure that the barrier is dug deep enough to prevent moles from burrowing underneath. Additionally, it should be tall enough to prevent them from climbing over. Hardware cloth is a more durable option than chicken wire, making it a better choice for long-term use.

When purchasing hardware cloth, look for a mesh size that is small enough to prevent moles from squeezing through. A mesh size of 1/4 inch or smaller is recommended. Hardware cloth can be purchased in rolls of varying lengths and widths, making it easy to customize the barrier to fit your specific needs.

Burying Fencing

Another effective way to keep moles away from your swimming pool is to install a fence that is buried in the ground. This is an especially good option if you have a large area to cover.

By burying the fencing, you create a physical barrier that the moles can’t dig under or through. Make sure the fence is at least two feet deep to ensure the moles can’t tunnel underneath it.

There are several types of fencing materials that are suitable for burying. You can use metal mesh or hardware cloth, which are both durable and long-lasting. Or, you can use plastic mesh fencing, which is less expensive and easy to install.

Use Castor Oil

One natural and effective method for repelling moles is using castor oil. This oil contains a compound called ricinoleic acid, which is known to be a strong repellent for moles. Castor oil can be used in different ways to keep moles away from your swimming pool.

The first way to use castor oil is to mix it with water in a 1:1 ratio and then spray it on the areas where moles are active. The second way is to mix castor oil with dish soap and then apply the mixture on the mole hills. The soap helps the mixture to stick to the soil, making it more effective.

You can also use castor oil granules which can be spread over the lawn and watered in. These granules release the castor oil into the soil, creating an unpleasant environment for moles. Castor oil products can be purchased from garden centers or online retailers.

Note that castor oil is safe for use around pets and humans, but it may harm beneficial insects such as bees, so it’s best to use it sparingly and only in the areas where moles are active.

How to Apply Castor Oil

Step 1: Mix one part castor oil with two parts water to dilute it.

Step 2: Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and shake well.

Step 3: Spray the diluted castor oil onto the soil around your pool, focusing on areas where mole activity is prevalent.

Step 4: Reapply the mixture every two weeks, or after heavy rain or watering, to maintain the barrier.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Castor Oil

Benefits: One of the biggest benefits of using castor oil to repel moles is that it is a natural and eco-friendly solution. It won’t harm the moles or other wildlife, and won’t leave harmful residues in your yard. Castor oil is also relatively inexpensive and easy to apply.

Drawbacks: While castor oil can be effective, it may take several applications to see results. It may also need to be reapplied after rainfall or irrigation. Additionally, some people find the smell of castor oil to be unpleasant, and it may take several days for the odor to dissipate.

Precautions: When applying castor oil, be sure to wear gloves and protective clothing to avoid skin irritation. Keep children and pets away from the treated area until the oil has dried.

Try Vibrating Mole Repellent

If you’re looking for a humane and easy-to-use method for keeping moles away from your swimming pool, consider trying a vibrating mole repellent. These devices work by emitting a low-frequency vibration that irritates moles and other burrowing animals, causing them to vacate the area.

One of the advantages of using a vibrating mole repellent is that it doesn’t harm the animals in any way. It simply convinces them to move on to a more peaceful location. Additionally, most vibrating mole repellents are designed to be easy to install and maintain, so you won’t have to spend a lot of time fussing with them.

Another benefit of using a vibrating mole repellent is that it doesn’t require any chemicals or pesticides, so you don’t have to worry about exposing yourself, your family, or your pets to potentially harmful substances. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly option that won’t harm the environment.

How Vibrating Repellents Work

Vibration: Mole repellent devices work by creating vibrations in the ground that mimic the movements of predators or other animals. These vibrations create a disturbance that moles and other burrowing animals find uncomfortable or alarming, causing them to move away from the area.

Solar Powered: Many vibrating repellents are solar-powered and do not require electricity or batteries, making them a convenient and eco-friendly option for deterring moles.

Range: The range of effectiveness for vibrating mole repellents varies depending on the brand and model, but generally, they cover an area of up to 11,000 square feet. It is important to place them strategically in areas of high mole activity for maximum effectiveness.

Types of Vibrating Repellents

Solar-powered stakes: These repel moles by emitting high-frequency vibrations into the soil. They are powered by solar panels and require minimal maintenance.

Battery-powered stakes: These are similar to solar-powered stakes but use batteries instead of solar power to create vibrations. They are generally more powerful but require regular battery replacement.

Sonic spike: Sonic spikes emit a sonic pulse and vibrations that are supposed to drive moles away. They are placed in the ground and require a power source.

Use Natural Predator Urine

If you’re looking for a natural way to keep moles away, consider using predator urine. This is an effective way to deter moles, as they will recognize the smell and think that a predator is nearby.

Predator urine is available in many forms, including fox urine, coyote urine, and bobcat urine. These products are safe to use around pets and humans, but be sure to read the instructions before use.

To use predator urine, apply it around the perimeter of your yard or garden. You can also apply it near mole tunnels and entrances. Reapply the urine every few weeks or after heavy rainfall.

Keep in mind that predator urine may not work for every situation. If you have a large mole infestation, you may need to use other methods in combination with predator urine to effectively get rid of them.

How to Use Predator Urine

• Choose the right type of predator urine: There are several types of predator urine available, including coyote, fox, and bobcat. Choose one that is native to your area and is known to scare off moles.
• Locate mole tunnels: Look for raised ridges and small, circular holes in your lawn to locate mole tunnels.
• Apply the urine: Pour the urine into the mole tunnel and around the entrance to the tunnel. You can also use a spray bottle to apply the urine.
• Reapply as necessary: Predator urine can lose its effectiveness over time, especially if it gets washed away by rain. Reapply the urine every few days or after it rains.

Predator urine can be an effective way to repel moles, but it’s important to use it correctly. Avoid getting the urine on your skin or clothing, as the smell can be difficult to remove. Additionally, be aware that some people find the smell unpleasant, so it’s best to use it in areas where you won’t be spending a lot of time.

Where to Find Predator Urine

• Hunting stores: Hunting stores often sell predator urine as a hunting lure.
• Online retailers: There are many online retailers that specialize in pest control and offer predator urine products.
• Local farms: Farmers may use predator urine as a natural method to protect their livestock from predators, so you can check with local farms if they sell predator urine.
• Garden centers: Some garden centers may sell predator urine as a natural pest control method for gardens.
• Outdoor supply stores: Stores that specialize in outdoor supplies, such as camping and hiking gear, may carry predator urine as a wildlife repellent.
• Nurseries: Nurseries that sell plants and trees may carry predator urine as a natural pest control method.

When purchasing predator urine, make sure to read the label and follow the instructions carefully for best results. It’s also important to note that predator urine may not be effective in all situations and may need to be used in conjunction with other pest control methods.

Set Traps

If all else fails, you may need to resort to setting traps. There are many types of traps available, including snap traps, live traps, and glue traps. Choose the type of trap that you are most comfortable with using.

When setting traps, it is important to place them in areas where you have seen evidence of mole activity, such as raised tunnels or molehills. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to avoid harming yourself or other animals accidentally.

Check the traps regularly, preferably daily, and remove any trapped moles promptly. You may need to set multiple traps to catch all of the moles in your yard.

Types of Mole Traps

Trap Type	Pros	Cons
Scissor-jaw mole trap	Durable, reusable, can be used in any type of soil	Can be challenging to set up and use correctly, can harm non-targeted animals
Harpoon mole trap	Easy to set up, quick and humane kill, can be used in most soil types	May not be as effective in heavy clay soils, may need frequent repositioning
Tunnel mole trap	Easy to use and set up, effective in most soil types, doesn’t harm non-targeted animals	May not be as durable as other types, can be more expensive, may require more frequent checking and resetting

There are several types of mole traps available on the market, each with its own pros and cons. One of the most popular types of traps is the scissor-jaw mole trap. This trap is known for its durability and reusability, making it a cost-effective option in the long run. However, it can be challenging to set up and use correctly, and may harm non-targeted animals.

Another option is the harpoon mole trap, which is known for its quick and humane kill. This trap is easy to set up and can be used in most soil types. However, it may not be as effective in heavy clay soils and may need frequent repositioning.

A tunnel mole trap is another effective option. It is easy to use and set up, and can be effective in most soil types. This trap doesn’t harm non-targeted animals, but may not be as durable as other types, can be more expensive, and may require more frequent checking and resetting.

How to Set and Bait a Mole Trap

The first step to setting and baiting a mole trap is to identify an active mole tunnel. Look for fresh molehills or soft ground, as these are signs of recent activity. Once you have identified an active tunnel, use a shovel to dig down to the tunnel and clear it of debris.

Next, set the trap according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the trap is level and flush with the ground to prevent it from being triggered by other animals. You can also add a lure to the trap, such as a piece of earthworm or a drop of castor oil, to make it more attractive to moles.

Once the trap is set and baited, cover it with a bucket or a box to prevent other animals from triggering it. Check the trap frequently, at least once a day, to see if it has been triggered. If you catch a mole, dispose of it properly and reset the trap in a different location to catch any remaining moles in the area.

What to Do with Trapped Moles

Once you have successfully trapped a mole, you may be wondering what to do with it. It’s important to dispose of trapped moles properly and humanely. One option is to release the mole far away from your property, in a location where it will not cause damage to gardens or crops.

If you do not wish to release the mole, you can also dispose of it in a humane manner. One method is to place the trapped mole in a plastic bag and freeze it for at least 24 hours. This will ensure that the mole is euthanized in a humane way. Once the mole has been frozen, it can be disposed of in the trash.

Another option is to donate the mole to a local wildlife rehabilitation center, if one is available in your area. These centers may be able to use the mole for educational purposes or to provide food for other animals in their care.

Frequently Asked Questions