Over the years, many popular magazines and movies have featured stories about rodents. In this age of information technology, good information can be transferred quickly. On the other hand, the Internet & poorly researched articles can serve to quickly misinform the public.
The following are myths, misconceptions, or half-truths commonly heard from people about the rodent in their neighborhoods.
FACT: Moles are classified as insectivores. The largest part of their diet consists of insects such as grubs, as well as earthworms, spiders, and centipedes.
MYTH: Moles are Blind
FACT: Moles have very tiny eyes that are hidden behind fur. Although moles have extremely poor eye sight, they are not blind. Their eyes allow them to distinguish between light and dark. Moles rely heavily on their sense of smell.
MYTH: Moles Destroy Plants by Feeding on Them
FACT: Typically, landscaping is destroyed by moles due to their tunneling action in which roots are exposed leading to water loss. In actuality, voles or mice are probably using the mole runways to feed on plants/bulbs.
MYTH: Chewing Gum is Effective Mole Control
FACT: Rumors have persisted that chewing gum and even particular brands (Juicy Fruit, e.g.) can be deposited into the hole to either kill or repel moles. Top scientists in the field give no validity to this theory and do not recommend using chewing gum against moles.
MYTH: Moles are Nocturnal
FACT: Although you may notice fresh mole hills seemingly appearing overnight, in actuality, moles are no more active at night then they are during the day. Simply put, moles tend to be more active during quiet periods. Typically, they tend to be most active during early morning and late night.
MYTH: Moles Live in Communities
FACT: Moles must consume a large amount of food each day and therefore cannot share their tunnel system with others. They live alone. However, it is common that burrow systems of several moles will connect.