Mole traps are not illegal, but some specific types of traps may be restricted in certain areas.
So let us take a deeper look
Mole traps are commonly used by farmers and homeowners to control mole populations. However, the legality of these traps varies by state or country. In the United States, mole traps are generally legal, but there may be restrictions on certain types of traps in some areas. It is important to check with local authorities before setting any traps.
According to the website of the American Mole Control Association, there are various types of mole traps, including tunnel, scissor-jaw, and harpoon traps. Some of these traps may be more effective than others, and each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The association provides tips on how to use these traps safely and effectively.
Despite being legal, there are ethical concerns about using mole traps. Some people argue that trapping and killing these small animals is cruel and unnecessary. Others argue that trapping is necessary for the protection of crops and property.
As the British naturalist Charles Darwin once said, “It may be doubted whether any small animal can be more useful to mankind than the mole.” While moles may have their benefits, they can also cause damage to lawns and gardens. Ultimately, it is up to individuals to weigh the pros and cons of using mole traps and make their own decision.
Table:
Type of Trap
Advantages
Disadvantages
Tunnel trap
Easy to set up and use
Not very effective
Scissor-jaw trap
Kills moles quickly
Can be difficult to set up
Harpoon trap
Effective at catching moles
Can be dangerous to humans and pets
Answer in video
The video showcases the use of a live trap to catch a mole that had been causing damage to a lawn by digging tunnels. The mole caught was active and aggressive and displayed physical adaptations such as small eyes and ears and soft fur. The YouTuber also demonstrates an ant farm style “mole farm” to observe how moles dig underground. The experiment is a success, and the mole is seen digging tunnels and moving dirt around. The YouTuber notes that while moles can be a nuisance for homeowners, they are actually beneficial to the environment as they eat pests and help break up soil for deeper plant roots.
Legal Status Moles are unclassified and people may trap or kill moles on their own property when they are causing damage to crops, domestic animals, or their property (RCW 77.36.
A mole trap which pierces the mole’s body with a spring mechanism is a "body-gripping trap" as defined in RCW 77.15.192. RCW 77.15.194 (1) makes it unlawful to use any "body-gripping trap" for recreation or commerce in fur.
State authorities say use of the devices was outlawed by a 2000 initiative aimed at body-gripping traps. Mole traps, unlike mousetraps, weren’t exempted under the law, which was chiefly sold to voters as a move against traps that accidentally kill pets and maim wildlife.
In 2000, Washington state voters passed Initiative 713 which revised Washington state law so that “it is unlawful to use or authorize the use of any steel-jawed leghold trap or any other body-gripping trap to capture any animal” (RCW 77.15.194) This makes body-gripping or body-piercing mole traps illegal for anyone to use in Washington.
(1) It is unlawful to use or authorize the use of any steel-jawed leghold trap, neck snare, or other body-gripping trap to capture any mammal for recreation or commerce in fur.
I am sure you will be interested in these topics
Why is it illegal to kill moles in NC?
Since the star-nosed moles are a rare species, all moles are protected species in North Carolina. While it is not illegal to kill moles, certain regulations apply.
Why you shouldn't kill moles?
As an answer to this: This may sound counterintuitive, but sometimes just leaving moles alone and covering up the evidence yourself is the best way. Besides making a beneficial addition to a garden, any mole that you evict or kill will likely be replaced with another, so killing them may not solve the problem.
Is it legal to kill moles in Florida?
As an answer to this: It is not legal to kill or poison moles in Florida, so mole control is taken care of by using a trap and release trap system.
Can you kill moles in your yard?
Answer to this: Usually feast on the best lawns and golf courses they prefer loamy soil that is moist. So it’s easier to dig all day and find food that’s creating even more damage. We’ve tried just about every
Are moles legal in the UK?
Traps. A mole trap are the least expensive and most efficient way to kill moles. Using traps, however, is not universally lawful. In some parts of Europe, trapping moles is legal but requires a hunting and trapping permit. Check with your local wildlife authorities before you attempt to trap moles if you live in the UK.
Are mole traps exempt?
Mole traps, unlike mousetraps, weren’t exempted under the law, which was chiefly sold to voters as a move against traps that accidentally kill pets and maim wildlife. Attorney Jim Dore, who is representing Krick in a lawsuit filed against the Fish & Wildlife Department, said the state is off base in its interpretation of the law.
How effective is a mole trap?
The answer is: A mole trap’s effectiveness typically depends on the type of trap you use. Some can trap all kinds of moles, while others are effective for larger moles but not smaller ones. You can also find traps that can help you catch more than just moles, such as gophers, mice, voles, and more. Check the material that a mole trap is made from.
Can You Kill a mole in Washington State?
Response: In Washington state in the northwestern United States, killing moles is encouraged but certain methods of trapping moles are prohibited. A law passed in 2000 bans the use of “body gripping” or “snap trap” mole traps. It is legal to own these traps and it is legal to sell these traps, but it is not legal to use them to catch a mole.
Are moles legal in the UK?
The answer is: Traps. A mole trap are the least expensive and most efficient way to kill moles. Using traps, however, is not universally lawful. In some parts of Europe, trapping moles is legal but requires a hunting and trapping permit. Check with your local wildlife authorities before you attempt to trap moles if you live in the UK.
Are mole traps exempt?
Response will be: Mole traps, unlike mousetraps, weren’t exempted under the law, which was chiefly sold to voters as a move against traps that accidentally kill pets and maim wildlife. Attorney Jim Dore, who is representing Krick in a lawsuit filed against the Fish & Wildlife Department, said the state is off base in its interpretation of the law.
How effective is a mole trap?
A mole trap’s effectiveness typically depends on the type of trap you use. Some can trap all kinds of moles, while others are effective for larger moles but not smaller ones. You can also find traps that can help you catch more than just moles, such as gophers, mice, voles, and more. Check the material that a mole trap is made from.
Can You Kill a mole in Washington State?
As an answer to this: In Washington state in the northwestern United States, killing moles is encouraged but certain methods of trapping moles are prohibited. A law passed in 2000 bans the use of “body gripping” or “snap trap” mole traps. It is legal to own these traps and it is legal to sell these traps, but it is not legal to use them to catch a mole.
