6 Best Mole Killers: Make the Moles Go Away

A list of the best mole killers - from traps to poisonous baits and gassers - to get rid of these subterranean pests.
By
Phyllis McMahon
Phyllis McMahon
Research Writer
Phyllis teaches English Literature at a local college and loves writing in her free time. She’s also a great cook – her British beef Wellington is something the best res read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Chas Kempf
Chas Kempf
Expert Consultant
Chas works in a professional pest control company and knows all the nuances of this job. Also, he’s a fantastic tennis player and loves to organize BBQ parties for his fam read more
Last updated: September 01, 2023
MenaceToPests is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here

In just one hour, a mole can dig up to 18 feet of tunnels, making your lawn their personal highway! Ugh! Imagine if you have at least two of them. Your yard would look like a minefield! The good news is that you can take action to keep moles from ruining your yard. We are here to help.

We’ve tested 14 products and compiled a list of the 6 best mole killers. Our Editor’s Choice nomination took the Bell Laboratories Talpirid 7150 Mole Bait Worms. You’ll find multi-useable traps, poisonous baits, and gassers; all are safe to use around kids and pets if used as directed. Some models can target not only moles but other pests like gophers, thanks to Zinc Phosphide and Sodium Nitrate that cause neurotic symptoms leading to death. Keep reading to find the perfect killer for your needs.

Quick Summary

Top 6 Mole Killers Review 2024

?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7522 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.4
9.8
Features
  • Type: poisonous bait
  • Material/component: Bromethalin
  • Weight: 3.5 oz.
  • Target pests: moles

More features: 20 fake worms

The Talpirid 7150 Mole Bait Worms is our Editor’s Choice as it is a worm-shaped mole bait, scientifically proven to kill moles in lawns and gardens. It contains Bromethalin, a deadly poison, and mimics a natural food source of moles – the earthworm. The bait also contains additives that appeal to moles. It comes with two trays of ten worms for several applications. It is easy to use – just place the bait in the areas where you have seen mole activity. The worms will then be carried back to the mole’s burrow, where they will consume them. Moles may consume a lethal dose of the Talpirid 7150 Mole Bait in a single feeding, but it may take two or more days for them to die. This product is safe to use around children and pets, as long as they don’t access the bait.

These bait worms will kill any and all moles but also keep them out of sight and out of mind. This is because it generally takes them several days to die, unlike traps like the CINCH Traps Mole Trap Kit, which need to be checked and emptied. If you don’t want to deal with mole carcasses, then we recommend you check this out.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Attracts with scent
  • Mimics the mole's natural food
  • Tested on live moles in labs and fields
  • Easy to set
  • No contact with moles
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Not pet-safe if used incorrectly
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3803 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.4
9.7
2
Best Safe for Pets

The Giant Destroyer Gas Killer

Features
  • Type: gas bomb
  • Material/component: Sodium Nitrate, Sulfur, Charcoal
  • Weight: not specified
  • Target pests: moles, gophers, woodchucks, Norway rats, skunks, and ground squirrels.

More features: 48 in a pack

The Giant Destroyer Gas Killer is the best and safest mole killer for pets and kids because it uses a natural gas that is not poisonous to earth. Moreover, if it’s used as directed, the chances of harming pets or children are low. This gas is effective in killing a range of pests like moles and gophers, woodchucks, Norway rats, skunks, and ground squirrels.This gasser is also easy to use. All you need to do is light a cartridge and drop it into the burrow, and it will let out a smoke bomb that will kill the moles instantly. It is important to note that this product should only be used for outdoor purposes in residential areas, parks, golf courses, re-forested areas, or open fields. Lastly, it is made in the USA from organic substances and is biodegradable, making it eco-friendly.

Unlike our Editor’s Choice, the Bell Laboratories Talpirid 7150 Mole Bait Worms, and many other products on our listing, these gas killers from Giant Destroyer are instantaneous. While many other baits take some time for the moles to find them, these will stop them dead in their tracks right after application. If you want to rid yourself of your rodent infestation in one fell swoop, then we highly recommend this product.

    Why are we impressed?
  • No need to deal with dead pests
  • Extremely effective
  • Easy to store
  • Easy to use
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Can be extremely harmful if inhaled
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4193 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.6
3
Best Mole and Gopher Killer

CINCH Traps Mole Trap Kit

Features
  • Type: trap
  • Material/component: metal wiring and galvanized steel plate
  • Weight: 1.90 lbs.
  • Target pests: moles, gophers

More features: flags, manual

The CINCH Traps Mole Trap Kit is the Best Mole and Gopher Killer as its instructions are clear, and the kit contains everything you need to get rid of these pesky pests. The trap is designed to be placed at the exact distance from the trigger to the cinch end so that the rodent is in the trap, when it tries to push dirt and plug the opening. This makes it much more likely that you will actually catch the gopher or mole. The traps come in different sizes to accommodate all-sized animals. They are made of metal wiring and galvanized steel plate, making them durable and long-lasting. The kit also comes with flags to mark where the traps have been set.

If you are uncomfortable using poison baits like the Bonide Moletox II to rid yourself of your mole issue, then these traps might fit the bill. They will allow you to keep track of the number of moles you remove from your property, as well as keep your children or pets from ingesting any of the deadly poisons in the baits.

    What stands out?
  • Pet-friendly when used as directed
  • 2 traps in a kit
  • Multi-use
  • Three size options available
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • To be set in a tunnel
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8231 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.5
4
Best Poisonous Bait

Bonide Moletox II

Features
  • Type: poisonous bait
  • Material/component: Zinc Phosphide 2.0%
  • Weight: 1 lbs.
  • Target pests: moles, pocket gophers

More features: wax coating

The Bonide Moletox II is the Best Poisonous Bait as it has an easy-to-use applicator that and is effective against both moles and pocket gophers. It comes in a ready-to-use granular form, so all you have to do is place it in the active burrows or tunnels. One teaspoon of bait is all that is needed to treat an area, making it very economical. This fast-acting formula will kill the pests quickly, giving you relief from their damage. The main active ingredient is Zinc Phosphide, a proven poison against these pests. The bait also uses cracked corn for great bait acceptance and has a wax coating that makes it weatherproof and long-lasting in the ground. This product is intended for use in residential lawns and can help to protect flower bulbs at fall planting.

While we love the wormlike design of the Bell Laboratories Talpirid 7150 Mole Bait Worms, we do realize that they might not be the most economical design for larger infestations. After all, you only get twenty worms to use, while this poisoned bait comes in a much easier-to-spread out the granular formula, making it great for covering a larger area to get rid of more moles.

    What are its best features?
  • Weather proof
  • Ready-to-use
  • Affordable
  • Prevents bulb damage at fall planting
    What could be improved?
  • Constant maintenance needed
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7373 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.4
5
Best Trap

Talpirid Mole Trap

Features
  • Type: trap
  • Material/component: glass-filled nylon and rust-proof construction
  • Weight: 2.16 lbs.
  • Target pests: moles

More features: dual springs, curved jaws

Talpirid Mole Trap is the Best Trap for moles because it is made of glass-filled nylon, which will not rust and can be used in all types of soil. Additionally, the Talpirid Mole Trap is a heavy-duty, dual-spring trap. This “hands-free” trap is fast and easy to place and set, making it ideal for those who want to get rid of moles quickly and efficiently. All captured moles are released by removing the trap from the ground and compressing the pedal by hand. Using the safety release button, the trap can be easily and safely disengaged and relocated to other mole tunnels, depending on mole pressure.

One of the biggest issues with using baits like Victor M6006 Poison Peanuts Mole & Gopher Killer is that they have a limited shelf-life. After a bit of time, you can’t use them anymore, so you will need to purchase a new bottle. That is not the case with this hands-free trap. It is designed so that it will never rust and can be used for years on end with the same efficacy as the first time you tried them.

    What do we love it for?
  • Hands-free
  • Easy and safe to disengage
  • Multi-usable
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Takes time and effort to set
  • No setting instructions
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2901 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.9
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.3
Features
  • Type: poisonous bait
  • Material/component: Zinc Phosphide
  • Weight: 0.58 lbs.
  • Target pests: moles and gophers

More features: 4 in a pack

Getting rid of these pesky moles can be not that easy of a task and may require trying out a few different methods, but Victor M6006 Poison Peanuts Mole & Gopher Killer is one product that seems to work for most people and is quite affordable. This product comes in a 6-ounce container, which includes plenty of bait to get rid of the burrowing animals. The active ingredient in this poison is zinc phosphide, which is known to be lethal to moles and gophers. The container has a cone-shaped tip that makes it easy to apply the pellets into the active tunnels. You simply need to poke a hole in the top of the tunnel with the pointed end of the cone, pour in the pellets, and wait for the results.

While we really like Bonide Moletox II, it is not as easy to control how much bait you’re putting at a time. This poison, however, comes with a cone-shaped applicator that allows for precise application each time. This cone-shaped design makes it much easier to get right into the mole tunnels where it will be most effective.

    What makes it special?
  • Easily set
  • Quickly kills and repels moles
  • The price tag is quite low
    What cons did we find?
  • Not children and pet safe

Things to Consider

A mole killer can come in different forms, like baits, traps, and even sprays. It will hugely depend on what you are comfortable using. For instance, poisonous baits can be dangerous to other animals and small children. Traps are multi-use, so they can be used over and over again. It will also depend on how big your mole problem is. A professional may need to be called in if the issue is out of hand. We considered all these things in our guide to help you find the best product for your needs.

Types of Mole Killers

6 Best Mole Killers: Make the Moles Go Away
Gassers and poisonous baits work similarly by attacking the respiratory or neurotic system of a mole, resulting in death. The traps will simply snap the mole and kill it.

There are a number of different ways that you can use to kill or trap moles, but one of the most effective methods is to use poisonous baits. These baits are designed to attract and kill moles, and they can be very effective in getting rid of these pests.

Mole baits usually have some attractant smell or flavor that will lure the moles into eating them. Once they eat the bait, they will usually die within a few hours.

There are different active components that can be used in mole baits, but the most common and effective ones are zinc phosphide and chlorophacinone.

Bromethalin is a powerful active ingredient found in many mole killers that can kill moles in just one feeding. However, it may take several days for the full effects of bromethalin to be seen. Even a small amount of bromethalin can adversely affect nerve function in small animals, so be careful to avoid contact with your skin or eyes when handling this chemical.

Zinc phosphide is a highly toxic substance that is lethal to moles when ingested. This poison works by causing the moles to stop breathing, and it is usually fatal within a few hours.

Chlorophacinone is another very effective poison for killing moles. This substance works by causing an internal hemorrhage, and it is usually fatal within 12 to 24 hours.

If you decide to use poisonous baits to kill or trap moles, make sure that you follow the instructions carefully. In particular, be sure to keep the baits away from children and pets.

Mole traps are designed to kill moles in a quick and humane way. They work by waiting for a physical trigger, such as a mole, to activate the trap, which then instantly kills the mole. Mole traps come in different sizes and shapes, but they are typically small and semi-circular so that a mole can fit through easily. Some mole traps also resemble large clippers, but these are not as effective or quick as the smaller ones. This may sound not humane to you but it is a very quick death for the mole.

Mole gassers are devices that emit a mixture of carbon dioxide and nitrogen, which suffocates moles. The device is placed in the ground and releases the gas over a period of time, typically around 24 hours.

Mole gassers can be an effective way to control a mole population, but they must be used carefully to avoid harming other animals or humans. The tunnels should be covered with a board or something similar to keep the gas from escaping and harming non-target animals. Additionally, the gas can be dangerous to humans if inhaled, so it is important to use caution when handling or setting up these devices.

Target Species

When choosing a mole killer, it’s important to consider the target pests. Some mole killers are only effective against moles, while others can kill other pests as well. Of course, it’s better to identify the specific pests in your yard before purchasing a product and target those animals specifically. Depending on the size and type of your yard, you may want to purchase a mole killer that is effective against multiple pests.

If you have other animals in your yard, you may want to consider a mole killer that can kill them as well. For example, the Giant Destroyer Gas Killer is effective against not only moles but gophers, woodchucks, Norway rats, skunks, and ground squirrels.

Price

The average price of a mole killer is around $30. However, the price can vary depending on the type of mole killer and where you purchase it. The most expensive mole killers are mole traps as they are multi-use and can be quite costly. However, you only need to buy them once as they will last you for years. For instance, the Talpirid Mole Trap and CINCH Traps Mole Trap Kit will help you get rid of moles for around $40.

The mole poisonous baits can be both affordable like the Bonide Moletox II and on a higher end like the Bell Laboratories Talpirid 7150 Mole Bait Worms as they not only contain poison but also imitate the natural food of moles and have attractant scents.

The mole gassers like the Giant Destroyer Gas Killer are usually cheaper than other mole killers but you’ll probably need to purchase them more in quantity as they need to be replaced after some time.

Do I Have a Mole?

6 Best Mole Killers: Make the Moles Go Away
The shape of piles in your garden will tell you what rodent you have. Moles will leave conical hills.

The first step is to identify whether you have a mole or some other pest.

If you see piles of dirt on your lawn, it’s likely a gopher or ground squirrel. Found these types of piles? Then the 6 best gopher traps will be helpful to you.

Moles, on the other hand, create volcano-shaped hills of fresh soil. Check for these hills, as well as for any ground that seems raised or lumpy.

If you’re still not sure, look for the subtle changes in grass color that moles leave behind as they travel just below the surface. Once you’re confident you have a mole problem, you can take steps to get rid of it.

Other Options

6 Best Mole Killers: Make the Moles Go Away
Solar repellents vibrate every time an animal is around, sending a sonic wave underground that will irritate the mole and encourage it to leave the area.

One more way to get rid of moles and keep them unharmful is to consider mole repellents.

Granular repellents: These products contain ingredients like castor oil or citronella that work to keep moles away. They need to be reapplied regularly but can be an effective option if used correctly.

Liquid repellents: This type of product is applied directly to the ground and works in a similar way as granular repellents. They can last longer but may be more expensive.

Ultrasonic devices: These devices emit a high-frequency sound that moles find unpleasant, and can be effective in keeping them away from your yard.

You can look through the 6 best mole repellents to find the best solution for the mole problem.

Tips for Using Mole Killers

-Always read the labels carefully and follow the directions when using any type of mole killer.

-If you are using a trap, bait, or poison, make sure that you set them up correctly in order to avoid harming other animals or humans.

-If you are using poison, make sure that you store it in a safe place where children and pets cannot access it.

-Never use more mole killer than is recommended on the label. Using too much can be very dangerous to humans and pets.

FAQ

Are mole killers safe around pets and children?

Each mole killer has its own unique set of ingredients or techniques. Some products are safe to use around pets and children, while others pose a risk. It’s important to read the label carefully and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid any accidents.

What are some of the dangers of using mole traps?

There are a number of dangers associated with using mole traps. First, if you do not set the trap properly, you could injure yourself or someone else. Second, if you use a live trap, the mole could escape and cause damage to your property. Finally, if you use poisons or other chemicals to kill the mole, you could harm yourself or others if you are not careful.

Do I need a professional to help me with my mole problem?

If you have a severe mole infestation, you may want to consider hiring a professional pest control company to help you get rid of them. However, if you have a small number of moles, you can probably get rid of them yourself using some.

Our verdict

The Talpirid 7150 Mole Bait Worms is our Editor’s Choice as they mimic a mole’s natural food source – the earthworm – and contain Bromethalin, which is a deadly poison. It also contains additives that appeal to moles. This product is safe to use around children and pets, as long as they are not able to access the bait.

The Giant Destroyer Gas Killer is one of the best mole killers that uses natural gas. It is easy to use and perfect for residential areas, parks, golf courses, re-forested areas, or open fields. It is made in the USA from organic substances and is biodegradable, making it earth-friendly.

The CINCH Traps Mole Trap Kit contains two durable and long-lasting traps made of metal wiring and galvanized steel plates, and the kit also comes with flags to mark where the traps have been set.

References

1.
FS025: Mole Management in Turf and Gardens (Rutgers NJAES)
Moles are burrowing mammals that can cause problems in turf areas and garden plots while foraging for earthworms or insects in the soil.
2.
Moles and Their Control
This NebGuide describes moles and their habi- tat, and provides recommendations for their control, including the use of traps, food reduction, repellents, fumigants, and toxic baits.
9,8
Total Score
Bell Laboratories Talpirid 7150 Mole Bait Worms - Editor’s Choice
Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

X