Small Mammals

Moles play a beneficial role in the management of soil and the control of undesirable grubs and insects, but homeowners may object to molehills and the shallow tunnels moles create. This six-page fact sheet discusses mole biology, damage caused by moles, and damage control strategies.

Four species of voles occur in Pennsylvania: the meadow vole, the pine vole, the red-backed vole, and the rock vole. The red-backed vole and rock vole are primarily restricted to mountainous areas, and it is the meadow vole and pine vole that are most often responsible in damage situations. This four-page fact sheet covers vole biology, food habits, damage caused by voles, and damage control methods.

Chipmunks typically inhabit woodlands, but they also inhabit areas in and around rural and suburban homes. In large numbers, they can cause structural damage by burrowing under patios, stairs, retention walls, or foundations. They also may eat flower bulbs, seeds, or seedlings. This four-page fact sheet discusses chipmunk biology and explores ways to control damage caused by chipmunks.