5 Ways To Spot Mole Tunnels In Your Lawn

Moles leave behind damage that is hard to ignore. These insect-eating mammals live underground, where they create extensive tunnel networks in search of grubs and earthworms. While they rarely break the surface with large holes, their presence is often revealed through subtle signs like raised ridges or sunken patches of turf. That’s why early identification is key to effective mole control and preventing widespread lawn damage.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through 5 ways to spot mole tunnels in your lawn and simple techniques any homeowner can apply. From identifying soft ground to tracking soil mounds, we’ll assist you in staying a step ahead of mole activity.

For those needing extra support, Ryan Lawn & Tree brings years of experience in mole assessment and lawn care solutions, helping you maintain a healthy, mole-free yard throughout the season. Let’s dive into what to look for beneath your feet.

1. Look for Raised Ridges or Turf Lines

The main sign of mole activity is the appearance of turf lines. These ridges form as moles tunnel just beneath the grass, displacing soil and creating soft, linear mounds.

To confirm mole presence, try stepping on a section of the ridge and revisit it a day later. If it springs back up, that means the tunnel is active. These tracks often span long distances and serve as frequently used travel paths for moles as they search for food. Raised ridges are more common in areas with moist, loose soil and should be monitored regularly for changes.

2. Identify Small Mounds of Loose Soil (“Molehills”)

Molehills are classic indicators of mole tunnels beneath your yard. These volcano-shaped soil mounds are formed when moles push dirt up through exit holes as they create deeper tunnels or vertical shafts. Unlike random holes made by rodents, molehills are usually tidy, symmetrical, and closely tied to tunnel access points. You’ll often find them at the ends of surface ridges or near heavily tunneled areas.

Interestingly, the soil in molehills is rich in nutrients and can be collected for garden use or potted plants. Just be sure to remove them carefully and check for continued activity around those spots.

3. Observe Sunken or Spongy Turf Areas

Another subtle sign of mole tunneling is a soft or spongy feel beneath your feet as you walk across the yard. These areas often appear where mole tunnels have caused the upper grass layer to collapse slightly due to soil displacement. Pressing down on these spots might cause visible sinking, which suggests voids created by recent tunneling.

Unlike damage from voles or other rodents, which typically manifests as shallow scrapes or surface nibbling, mole-related turf issues are deeper and more structural. Soft patches in previously firm turf are strong indicators that moles are active below.

4. Monitor Lawn Patterns Over Time

Tracking mole activity over several days or weeks can provide crucial insights. Mark areas where you spot new ridges or molehills using small flags or stakes. Moles are territorial and often reuse the same tunnels, so recurring signs in the same spots are a red flag for ongoing presence.

Persistent ridges, newly formed mounds, or turf that continues to lift are all signs that mole traffic is still occurring. Keeping a short log of changes helps you detect patterns and identify mole “hotspots” on your property, making it easier to decide when to take action or consult a lawn care expert.

5. Watch for Insect Activity Beneath the Surface

Moles aren’t in your lawn just for fun; they’re hunting. They usually feast on grubs, beetle larvae, and earthworms. If your yard has an abundance of soil-dwelling insects, you’re more likely to attract moles.

Check under sod or mulch for clusters of grubs or increased beetle larvae activity. If you’re seeing more insects than usual, especially in concentrated zones, it’s often a precursor to mole tunneling. In fact, grub-infested areas and mole tunnels tend to go hand in hand. Managing grub populations with eco-conscious treatments is an effective long-term strategy to make your lawn less appealing to moles.

Spotting Tunnels Early Leads to Better Lawn Health

Raised ridges, fresh mounds, sunken turf, and repeated tunnel patterns are all reliable signs of mole activity. Because mole signs can be subtle at first, professional testing and repeated inspection help confirm the presence of these underground pests. Moles thrive in soil that’s rich in insect prey, so healthy lawns can unintentionally attract them. That’s why we encourage early detection, as it allows for fast, targeted action before major damage occurs.

Your Best Ally For Mole Removal and Prevention

For expert evaluation and eco-conscious mole control, trust our experienced team at Ryan Lawn & Tree to protect your outdoor space and keep your lawn thriving.