Types of Insectivores in Tennessee and Why They Matter

Posted on December 31, 2024 by smokywildlife

Tennessee is a state known for its breathtaking natural beauty, from the fog-covered peaks of the Smoky Mountains to its rolling farmlands and river valleys. Beneath this scenic landscape lies a rich network of ecosystems brimming with biodiversity. Among the many fascinating creatures in Tennessee’s wildlife are insectivores—those that feast on insects and play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Understanding these interesting species can deepen our appreciation for the natural world while shedding light on how we can protect them.

Whether you’re a Tennessee resident, a wildlife enthusiast, or just someone with a thirst for learning, this guide dives into the world of insectivores among Tennessee wildlife. We’ll explore what insectivores are, the species found in the state, why they’re essential, and how we can work together to protect them (and deal with them when they creep into human spaces).

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What Are Insectivores and Why Are They Important?

Before we get into specifics, let’s define what insectivores are. Insectivores are animals that primarily feed on insects, including beetles, flies, ants, mosquitoes, and more. These creatures include not only mammals and birds but also amphibians, reptiles, and even some arthropods. While herbivores eat plants and carnivores stick to meat, insectivores thrive by keeping the insect population under control.

Many insectivores play key roles in pest control, crop protection, and even pollination. By naturally reigning in insect populations, they help prevent infestations and limit the spread of certain insect-borne diseases. Without insectivores, ecosystems would face severe imbalances, potentially leading to an increase in harmful pest populations.

Tennessee, a state rich in agriculture and outdoor activities, owes a lot to these hardworking creatures.

Common Types of Insectivores Found in Tennessee

Tennessee is home to a spectacular range of insectivores, each adding value to the ecosystem in their own way. Here are some of the most common insectivores you’re likely to encounter:

1. Bats

Bats are some of Tennessee’s most effective insect hunters. With over 14 species native to Tennessee, including the little brown bat and the big brown bat, these nocturnal creatures can consume thousands of insects in a single night. This makes them indispensable for controlling mosquito populations and protecting crops. They generally roost in caves, abandoned buildings, or tree hollows.

Fun Fact:

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency runs bat conservation programs to protect these species from habitat loss and White-Nose Syndrome, a fungal disease threatening bat populations.

2. Moles

Though often seen as nuisance wildlife, moles are insectivorous mammals that feast on grubs, earthworms, and insect larvae beneath Tennessee’s soil. Their tunneling behavior, while frustrating for lawn enthusiasts, supports soil aeration and reduces harmful pest populations.

3. Shrews

Shrews are tiny mammals with an insatiable appetite for insects. Don’t be fooled by their size—these small creatures boast a fast metabolism and can eat their body weight in insects every day. Shrews are often found in forests, fields, and gardens across Tennessee.

4. Birds

Tennessee’s skies are home to several insectivorous birds, including swallows, warblers, and woodpeckers. These birds feed on flies, mosquitoes, caterpillars, and bark-dwelling insects. The barn swallow, for instance, is a migratory bird that plays a significant role in pest control during the summer months.

5. Amphibians

Northern spring peepers and American toads are among the region’s amphibians with a taste for insects. These species rely on insects for survival and thrive near swamps, ponds, and forests.

6. Spiders

Though technically arthropods, spiders deserve a spot on this list. By weaving their intricate webs, spiders help trap flies, mosquitoes, and gnats—making them an ally to anyone prone to bug bites.

The Benefits of Tennessee’s Insectivores

From agriculture to daily life, insectivores offer numerous ecological and economic benefits:

Pest Control – Bats, birds, and shrews are nature’s exterminators, reducing populations of pests that harm crops or spread diseases like West Nile virus. Farmers benefit tremendously from their presence.
Natural Soil Management – Creatures like moles aerate the soil as they burrow, promoting healthy root systems for plants.
Pollination Support – Certain insectivorous birds and bats assist in pollinating plants, ensuring the continued growth of local flora.
Ecosystem Balance – By preying on insects, these animals help maintain a balanced ecosystem, preventing outbreaks of harmful species.

Conservation Efforts in Tennessee

Protecting insectivores and their habitats has become a priority in Tennessee. Conservation groups and organizations, like the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, are working tirelessly to monitor and maintain populations of insectivorous species like bats, songbirds, and amphibians. Key initiatives include:

Bat Conservation – Efforts focus on creating safe roosting environments and combating White-Nose Syndrome.
Bird Habitat Preservation – Programs encourage creating bird-safe backyards with nesting boxes and native plants.
Wetland Restoration – Amphibians depend on wetlands, so projects to restore and maintain healthy water bodies are critical.

How Tennessee Residents Can Help

Wondering how you can make a difference in supporting Tennessee’s insectivores? Try these practical tips:

Build Bat Houses – Installing a bat house in your backyard encourages these helpful creatures to settle in your area and control mosquitoes naturally.
Plant Native Flora – Grow native plants and flowers to attract insectivorous birds and beneficial insects to your garden.
Limit Pesticide Use – Avoid spraying pesticides that could harm the beneficial insect population and the insectivores that rely on them for food.
Use Safe and Humane Wildlife Control Strategies – If you encounter insectivorous wildlife around your home, contact a professional wildlife control service for safe and humane removal rather than resorting to harmful methods.

Managing Nuisance Wildlife in Tennessee

While insectivores are essential to our ecosystems, they can occasionally cause problems, such as yard damage from moles or unwanted bat colonies in attics. Follow these humane wildlife control tips:

Install mole repellent sprays or strategically place barriers to deter moles from your lawn.
Contact local wildlife control experts for safe and ethical removal or relocation of bats from buildings. Bat houses can help redirect their roosting.
Use natural methods, like netted coverings for gardens, to minimize the impact of insectivorous creatures without harming them.
Being mindful about wildlife control strategies ensures both human and animal coexistence in harmony.

Help Support Tennessee’s Vital Ecosystem

From moles and shrews to bats and birds, Tennessee’s insectivores play an irreplaceable role in maintaining a healthy and vibrant ecosystem. By understanding their importance, supporting conservation efforts, and managing human-wildlife interactions responsibly, we can ensure these incredible species continue to thrive in the Volunteer State.

Want a healthier, wildlife-friendly home? Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed and insured animal removal and control in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. From wildlife extraction and sealing to attic restoration and cleanup, we have the nuisance animal control solutions you need.

Say Goodbye to Molehills: Essential Tips for Lawn Care and Yard Mole Removal

Posted on July 9, 2024 by smokywildlife

Is your once pristine lawn starting to resemble a mini mountain range? If you’ve noticed small mounds of soil popping up in your yard, you’ve likely got a mole problem. Molehills can be a nuisance for homeowners, gardeners, and landscaping enthusiasts alike. These unsightly heaps not only ruin the aesthetic appeal of your lawn but can also cause damage to your plants and turf. In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about molehills, from identifying them to effectively managing and preventing these pesky invaders.

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Identifying Molehills

Before tackling the problem, it’s essential to confirm that what you’re dealing with are indeed molehills. These mounds are typically circular or oval-shaped and composed of loose, fresh soil. They can range in size but are usually about 6-8 inches in diameter and about 2 inches high. By recognizing these signs, you’ll be better equipped to spot mole activity in your yard and take appropriate action. Here’s what to look for:

Distinguishing Features: Molehills are characterized by the fine, crumbly texture of the soil. Unlike ant hills or gopher mounds, molehills lack visible entrance holes.
Location: Moles prefer areas with moist, loamy soil that’s rich in insects and grubs. You’ll often find molehills in well-irrigated lawns, garden beds, and around the base of trees.
Seasonality: Moles are most active during spring and fall when the soil is easy to dig through. Keep an eye out for new mounds during these seasons.

Mole Behavior

Understanding why moles create molehills can help you manage them more effectively. Moles are solitary, insectivorous animals that spend most of their lives underground. They dig extensive tunnel systems in search of food, primarily earthworms, and insects. By learning about mole behavior, you can better anticipate their movements and devise strategies to keep them at bay.

Feeding Tunnels: Moles create shallow, temporary tunnels near the surface while hunting for food. The removed soil is pushed up to form molehills.
Living Chambers: Deeper underground, moles construct more permanent tunnels and living chambers. These networks can cover large areas and intersect with other moles’ territories.
Activity Patterns: Moles are most active during early morning and late evening. Their digging can be sporadic, leading to the sudden appearance of multiple molehills overnight.

The Impact of Yard Mole Damage

Molehills might seem like minor annoyances, but they can have significant implications for your lawn and garden. Understanding the potential harm caused by molehills underscores the importance of timely and effective management. Here are some ways in which mole activity can negatively affect your outdoor spaces:

Turf Damage: The constant digging and tunneling can disrupt the grass roots, leading to brown patches and uneven surfaces. This can make mowing difficult and create tripping hazards.
Plant Stress: Moles often displace soil around plant roots while tunneling, causing stress to your plants. This can result in stunted growth or even plant death if left unchecked.
Secondary Pests: Mole tunnels can provide easy access for other pests like voles and mice, which may use the tunnels to reach plant roots and bulbs, causing additional damage.

Yard Mole Controls and Prevention

Managing molehills requires a combination of strategies to deter moles and restore your lawn’s appearance. By implementing these management techniques, you can reduce mole activity and minimize the impact on your lawn. Here are some practical tips to help you tackle the problem:

Natural Repellents: Planting mole-repellent plants like marigolds, daffodils, and castor beans can help deter moles from your garden. Castor oil-based sprays are also effective in repelling moles without harming them.
Physical Barriers: Installing hardware cloth or wire mesh around garden beds and lawn perimeters can prevent moles from entering specific areas. Ensure the barriers extend at least 12 inches below the soil surface to block their tunnels.
Traps and Baits: While not always humane, trapping and baiting are options for severe infestations. Consult a professional pest control service to ensure these methods are used safely and effectively.

Restoring Your Lawn After a Mole Infestation

Once you’ve managed to control the mole population, it’s time to repair the damage they’ve caused. With these restorative measures, your lawn will be back to its lush, green state in no time. Here are some steps to help restore your lawn to its former glory:

Leveling Molehills: Use a rake to flatten the molehills, redistributing the soil evenly across the affected areas. This will create a smoother surface and prevent further damage during mowing.
Reseeding and Sodding: Reseed any bare patches with high-quality grass seed, ensuring good soil-to-seed contact for optimal germination. For larger damaged areas, consider laying new sod for quicker results.
Aeration and Fertilization: Regular lawn aeration can help improve soil structure and promote healthy root growth. Follow up with a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for your recovering lawn.

Conclusion

Molehills can be a frustrating challenge for homeowners, gardeners, and landscaping enthusiasts. However, with a proactive approach and the right strategies, you can effectively manage mole activity and maintain a beautiful, healthy lawn. Remember to stay vigilant, implement preventive measures, and repair any damage promptly.

For those who prefer professional assistance, our yard mole removal service is here to help. Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for safe and affordable animal removal services for yard moles in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. Our experts can provide tailored solutions to keep your lawn mole-free and looking its best.

Moles in Your Garden: Villain or Victim?

Posted on December 6, 2023 by smokywildlife

Welcome to a world beneath your garden, an unseen realm inhabited by the humble mole. Often viewed simply as a nuisance, these burrowing creatures can disrupt our carefully manicured lawns and flower beds, leading many to resort to mole control or mole repellents. But did you ever stop to wonder whether our garden moles are truly villains, or if they might, in fact, be victims of our misunderstood perception? This blog post aims to shed light on this often-overlooked question, leading you down the tunnel of knowledge towards a more balanced understanding of these intriguing creatures.

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The Life of a Garden Mole

Before we delve into the question of villainy versus victimhood, let’s take a moment to understand the life of a garden mole. These small mammals belong to the Talpidae family and are commonly found in gardens across Europe, Asia, and North America. They possess powerful front limbs and large claws that allow them to dig complex tunnel systems, often spanning up to 200 meters in length. These tunnels are their homes, providing protection from predators and a safe place to raise their young.

Moles are insectivores, meaning they primarily feed on insects such as earthworms, grubs, and beetles. They spend most of their time underground, using their keen sense of smell to locate their next meal. Contrary to popular belief, garden moles do not eat the roots of plants, but rather aerate the soil and promote healthy plant growth by consuming insects that can harm them.

The Case Against Moles

Despite their integral role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem and promoting healthy soil, garden moles have been branded as villains by many homeowners. One of the main reasons for this is their extensive tunnel s y stems, which can cause damage to lawns and gardens. The raised ridges created by mole burrows can be unsightly and make mowing difficult. Additionally, their tunnels can cause plants to become uprooted or die due to a lack of stability in the soil.

Moles have also been accused of destroying crops and gardens by consuming plant bulbs and seeds. While they may occasionally eat small amounts of these, it is not a significant part of their diet. In most cases, any damage to plants can be attributed to the grubs and insects that moles actually eat.

The Truth About Mole Control

With their reputation as garden villains, many people turn to mole control methods in an attempt to rid their gardens of these creatures. However, it’s important to note that many of these methods can not only be ineffective but also cruel and harmful to other animals and the environment.

Trapping is a common form of mole control, but this method often leads to the death of innocent animals such as shrews or voles who may wander into the traps. Chemical repellents can also be harmful to other animals and beneficial insects in the area. The use of sound and vibration devices has not been proven to be effective, and ultrasonic repellents have no effect on moles at all.

A More Humane Approach to Get Rid of Yard Moles

Instead of viewing garden moles as villains and resorting to harmful mole control methods, we should consider a more humane approach. One solution is to simply tolerate the presence of moles in our gardens and appreciate the important role they play in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

You can also try natural mole repellents, such as planting daffodils or crown imperial plants, which are known to deter moles with their strong scents. Another option is to create designated areas for moles to dig, such as a section of the garden with loose soil. This can redirect their burrowing habits away from areas you wish to keep pristine.

In Conclusion

Garden moles are not villains but rather essential members of our ecosystem. While they may cause some minor inconveniences in our gardens, their benefits far outweigh any perceived harm. Before resorting to mole control methods, consider a more humane and tolerant approach to coexisting with these fascinating creatures. Who knows, you might even learn to appreciate their presence in your garden! So, the next time you spot a molehill or ridge in your lawn, take a moment to appreciate the unseen world beneath your feet – one that wouldn’t be possible without our humble garden moles.

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Natural Methods for Keeping Ground Moles Away from Your Garden

Posted on March 27, 2023 by smokywildlife

Ground moles are a common problem in many gardens and yards, often wreaking havoc underground with their complex networks of tunnels. While ground moles can be destructive to plants and lawns, they don’t have to be an unavoidable nuisance. There are several natural methods you can use to keep ground moles away from your garden without the need for harsh chemicals or trapping devices.

In this post, we will explore some of these natural mole control strategies so that you can enjoy your garden without fear of ground mole damage.

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Do-It-Yourself Methods of Ground Mole Removal and Control

Garden Mole Animal Proofing

One of the most effective natural ground mole control methods is to create a physical barrier that prevents ground moles from entering your garden. This can be accomplished by installing a fence or mesh wire mesh around the perimeter of your yard, extending it at least 12 inches into the ground and keeping it flush with the ground surface. This will prevent ground moles from burrowing under it and gaining access to your garden. You may also want to keep an eye out for mole activity in nearby areas as they often travel long distances through their extensive tunnel networks.

Mole Controls

Another effective natural ground mole removal method is to make your yard less attractive to moles. This can be accomplished by removing any potential sources of food such as grubs, worms, or insects. You can also reduce ground mole activity by keeping the ground around your garden well aerated and free of dense vegetation, as moles prefer wet, loosely-packed soil for their tunnels.

Animal Mole Repellent

Finally, you can use natural repellents such as castor oil to discourage ground mole activity in your yard. Castor oil has a strong smell that ground moles find unpleasant, and it is safe for humans and pets when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

You Can Always Talk to a Professional Yard Mole Removal Service

If ground mole activity persists despite these natural methods for ground mole control, then it may be time to seek professional assistance from a pest control specialist who can help assess and address the problem more effectively.

Get Rid of Lawn Moles FAST!

By following these suggestions for natural ground mole removal, you should be able to keep ground moles away from your garden and enjoy a beautiful landscape free of ground mole damage. With a little bit of effort and the right natural strategies, you can make sure that ground moles stay out of your yard for good.

Are you dealing with nuisance ground moles in or around your Smoky Mountain property? If so, contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed animal mole removal services in Nashville, Tennessee, and its surrounding areas. We serve both residential and commercial clients with the most competitive prices around.

Best Solutions for a Yard Mole Problem

Posted on April 15, 2022 by smokywildlife

Yard moles are primitively programmed to dig and tunnel through the ground. They do this behavior to develop their underground infrastructure of dens and burrows, but also to hunt down juicy grubs and similar soil-dwelling larvae. Yard mole behaviors are infamous for resulting in unsightly dirt mounds and canals all throughout the yard, as well as damage to shrubs, plants, flowerbeds, and even foundations. So, it is no surprise that homeowners are eager to get rid of animal moles as soon as they reveal their presence.

If you are experiencing similar yard mole pest problems, continue reading to learn some safe and effective solutions to get rid of moles in Tennessee for good.

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Get Rid of Animal Moles in the Yard

The method suggested for animal mole removal and control depends on the type of problem you have. If there is just one mole causing an issue on your property, the solution will not be as invasive as having multiple moles. It is important to contact a professional Tennessee wildlife control company for help determining the best solutions for getting rid of moles on your property. They can provide assessments, recommendations, and any critter abatement services to prevent wildlife intrusion and damage.

Nashville Critter Control for Yard Moles

A professional Nashville critter control company retains the resources and equipment necessary to eliminate a yard mole problem. You can block tunnels all you want, but they can just dig new tunnels around the old ones. If you really want to get rid of moles for good, you need professional intervention. A licensed Nashville wildlife control specialist will first determine which tunnels are active and which are not.

From there, they will begin to set non-lethal mole traps, and implement exclusion methods to prevent moles from entering areas within or underneath your home. Once these services are complete, the wildlife contractors will implement all the necessary preventative maintenance tasks to ensure moles are not attracted to your property. This mostly includes lawn treatments for grub control, since this is what moles are ultimately after.

Unlawful and Inhumane Animal Mole Removal Methods

There are several methods of animal mole removal that should never be attempted due to safety concerns. Without the proper training, knowledge, licensing, and industry resources, these methods of yard mole removal can be inhumane, ineffective, and most importantly, potentially dangerous for you and other animals. So, never use these devices or methods to trap or harm moles or any other wildlife for that matter:

✘ Impaling Traps
✘ Suffocation Traps
✘ Pesticides
✘ Concrete and Mesh Wire Blockades
✘ Flooding Tunnels
✘ Chemicals
✘ Explosives
✘ Hound Dogs
✘ Fire or Smoke
✘ Bubble Gum (Juicy Fruit Method)

Are you struggling to manage the nuisance yard moles on your Tennessee property? Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for affordable animal mole removal and control in Nashville, Tennessee and its surrounding counties. We provide residential and commercial animal control.

What is Tunneling and Digging Under My Lawn?

Posted on May 28, 2021 by smokywildlife

Is your lawn starting to look more like a war zone rather than a grassy pasture due to animal tunneling? If so, now is the right time to act. Otherwise, you can say goodbye to your green, glossy lawn forever. Animal tunneling is a common problem for homeowners in the Tennessee areas, especially those who live close to a body of water. Not only can tunneling activity destroy the look of your lawn, but it will also kill grass, crops, and plants. And the nuisance activity will only persist until someone intervenes.

Continue reading to learn which species of animal usually cause this sort of lawn damage, and what you can do to get rid of them, safely.

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Yard Moles and Groundhogs are Your Top Suspects

The two most common animals that practice underground tunneling are groundhogs and moles. Although voles and other species of wildlife are also known to exhibit the same behavior, their tunnels are not as noticeable from the surface.

Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, create complex underground tunnel networks that contain separate entrances and exits. You can distinguish groundhog tunnels from other animals because they tend to be larger and wider, and have large openings around a foot wide.

Moles are subterranean mammals that have been biologically gifted with polydactyl forepaws, which allows them to dig intricate tunnel systems and search for grubs and worms. This activity causes above-ground lawn damage. You can tell you have a mole problem when your lawn has several tunnels that lead to mounds of dirt, known as “molehills.”

Critter Control for Yard Moles and Groundhogs

Regardless of whether you have moles or groundhogs ruining your lawn, it is a problem that must be dealt with as soon as possible. Not only will these tunnels damage your lawn, crops, and plants, they can also temp other animals to use them, such as mice and rats. The best way to get rid of a nuisance animal problem is to contact a licensed Nashville wildlife removal and control company for non-lethal animal abatement services. Never attempt to touch, trap, harm, or kill a nuisance wild animal. There are laws that govern this practice, which is why a professional should always be contacted.

Would you like a pest-free lawn this summer, safe from nuisance animal damages? Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for safe and affordable Nashville Tennessee animal removal services for yard moles, groundhogs, and more.

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