Visit the Natural Science Reaserch Labratory's
(a part of the Museum of Texas Tech University)
"The Mammals of Texas" web site on Eastern Moles.

Moles are an
ancient species
of mammals that
are incredibly
well adapted to
their life
underground.

Most moles never really come to the
surface, although they do leave their
signs in the form of tunnels and mounds.
This damage is created in a mole's
relentless pursuit of food...primarily
earthworms. Yes earthworms. Moles are
insectivores, obtaining essentially ALL
of their dietary needs from these creatures.
In the process of hunting, moles can tunnel
up to 100 feet per day...causing extensive
lawn and landscape damage.

There are a total of 6 species of moles in
North America. While each has its own unique
look, size and characteristics, ALL of them
have one thing in common...their insatiable
appetite and need to find food.

Since moles do not hibernate and are active
year-round, there is a possibility of damage
throughout much of the year in many areas of
the country. In many cases, on-going control
programs will be necessary.

The First And Only Bait Proven To Kill Moles

In the past, mole baits have been developed assuming moles are similar to rats and mice, when in reality they are insectivores. As a result, previous mole baits have been shown to be completely ineffective, until now...

TALPIRID is the result of more than 3 years of groundbreaking research and development from Bell Laboratories, Inc., a world leader in pest control products.

Typical TALPIRID Treatment
While every situation is unique, most mole service programs will
involve more than one visit.  A PMP will typically perform
an initial evaluation, site treatment and a general follow-up.
In some cases one or more of these steps may be combined into the same visit.

Initial Evaluation
The initial evaluation involves a review of the property
and surrounding area.  This step helps determine the
most active areas.  Markers may be placed for more
precise review during the site treatment.

Site Treatment
A few days after the review and evaluation of the
property, a PMP will return to place bait into the
most active areas.  Bait will always be placed underground.

Follow-Up
Because each situation is unique, your PMP will determine
the property level and type of follow-up required.

Note
During treatment, it is important not to mow the lawn or disturb
tunnel/mound systems.  Disturbing the tunnels or mounds can
cause moles to change their normal feeding patterns making treatment
less effective.  It can also make technician reviews of the
site less efficient and not as informative.

Frequently Asked Questions
How does TALPIRID work?
TALPIRID works as an antagonist to a mole's high energy demand.
Moles typically die in their tunnels where they naturally decompose.

How will I know if TALPIRID is working?
Proof of TALPIRID's effectiveness will be evident as a result
of the elimination of new tunnel development and further lawn damage.

Is TALPIRID harmful to my lawn or plants?
No, TALPIRID will not cause any harm to lawns, flowering plants, trees or shrubs.

Is it safe to allow my pets to run free after my
yard has been treated with TALPIRID?
Whenever possible, it is best to have pets avoid the treatment
area for at least 24 hours.  Their presence can reduce the
effectiveness of the treatment and subsequent follow-ups.
The risk of your pet coming in contact with the bait is very small
as the bait is always applied underground.

How long will TALPIRID remain active in my yard?
TALPIRID has been designed to naturally degrade leaving no build-up
of active ingredient in the soil.  Under normal conditions,
this will happen in approximately 14 days.

What should I do if I find a dead mole in my yard?
Moles will typically die underground and naturally decompose.  If you find one on the surface simply wrap in newspaper and place into your garbage can.  Wash hands thoroughly afterwards.

What if my pet finds and eats a mole after my yard has been treated with TALPIRID?
The active ingredient in TALPIRID has been shown to have little or no secondary poising effect.  Thus, pets should not be at risk if they consume a mole that has consumed TALPIRID.

What should I do if my pet was to eat TALPIRID?
TALPIRID has been designed to be exclusively placed/used underground.  When placed properly TALPIRID has been shown to not act as an attractant to pets.  However, if you should see your pet eat TALPIRID, take you pet to the veterinarian immediately for evaluation and/or treatment.

Special Considerations
For the most part, mole activity is directly proportional to the availability
of its food source...primarily earthworms. Thus, the timing and severity and
location of this activity is directly influenced by those factors
affecting the abundance of earthworms.  These factors include
both environmental conditions, as well as topographical variations.

Environmental Conditions
Since moles follow their food source, they
will seem to disappear if worms move to other
areas.  This is especially true during
very dry conditions.  During these times
worms will go deeper in the soil following moisture.
Correspondingly, moles will follow deeper
underground.  This can give the impression
that a mole has left the area.  But
as soon as soil conditions change, they
will return to their tunnel/mound systems
as long as earthworms return.

Topographical Variations
Properties adjacent to wooded areas, field and
other fertile hunting grounds area susceptible
to "reoccupation".  "Reoccupation" occurs
when a new mole moves into an area that has
become inactive.  If these conditions
are present, additional treatment may be
required to maintain control.

All information provided on this page was taken
directly from the TALPIRID brochure provided by
Bell Laboratories, Inc.
Madison, WI 53704 USA