March 15, 2022 - Rodents
There are some wildlife species in Denver you probably are pretty familiar with. Species like squirrels are rather common, and even bigger wildlife such as deer are rather well-known in this outdoorsy state. However, there are some other wildlife species in Denver that people don't know or think much about. One of these species is the vole. Voles and moles are often confused with one another, but this guide is here to help you identify voles and learn how to keep them away from your property.
What Are Voles?
Voles are rodents that look rather like field mice and have light brown fur. They have rather short tails and heavy-set bodies. The other way to identify voles is by their teeth. They have rather prominent teeth that are an orange color. Voles are only about six inches long.
As mentioned above, voles are often confused with moles. But, moles look quite different. They have black fur and long snouts, and they have large feet that they use to dig underground tunnels. Mole feet are paddle-shaped.
While most people know that moles can dig holes and cause damage, they sometimes underestimate voles. Voles can also construct tunnels in the ground. It's just that the entrances to these tubes are smaller and harder to identify. Voles create tunnels around the perimeter of buildings or other structures, and they will sometimes create underground tunnels into businesses or homes. Voles can also damage the roots of plants and the grass that they consume.
Are There Voles In Denver?
There are voles throughout Colorado. In fact, there are around eight different species of voles in the state. Voles are sometimes referred to by other names, such as meadow mice or pine mice.
Voles can be rather difficult to spot as they rarely leave their underground tunnels. If a human is around, they are very unlikely to do so. Instead, you should look for grass that's suddenly dying or plants that are damaged or dying. Voles often cause the ground to feel rather spongy when you step on it.
Is It Safe To Pick Up A Vole?
Voles tend not to get inside buildings too often, but this doesn't mean they are harmless. They can spread diseases through their droppings and urine, but you're less likely to catch a disease from them as compared to other rodents like mice or rats.
If you do happen to spot a vole or want to try and catch one, it's not a good idea to do so. Voles are wild animals that can spread diseases like salmonella and hantavirus, and they will also likely try to bite you in self-defense.
Instead, the best way to get vole control is to contact wildlife removal professionals like the team at Absolute Pest Control.
How To Get Rid Of Voles On Your Denver Property
If you think you could have voles around your Denver property, give the experts at Absolute Pest Control a call today. We offer wildlife removal services that address voles as well as other animals such as squirrels. Voles can damage your yard, and they can be difficult to spot and eradicate. Instead, let our expert professionals handle the problem. Give us a call today to request an inspection.