If you share your yard with a tortoise, you already know how carefully you have to manage every plant, burrow, and potential hazard. So when moles and voles start tunneling through your lawn or nibbling on roots, your first thought is probably: How do I get rid of them without hurting my tortoise? The good news is that it is absolutely possible. With a little planning and the right tools, you can protect your garden and keep your tortoise safe. Here is exactly how to do it.
Why Poisons and Snap Traps Are Off Limits
The number one rule when you have a tortoise is: never use rodenticides or snap traps. Tortoises are ground-level grazers and explorers. They will eat grass, weeds, and even insects that might have ingested poison. A single dose of bromethalin or warfarin can be fatal to a tortoise. Snap traps are just as dangerous because a tortoise can easily get a leg or head caught while investigating the bait. Instead, focus on methods that physically exclude or gently relocate the moles and voles. Your tortoise’s health is worth the extra effort.
If you ever find a dead mole or vole in your yard, remove it immediately. Scavenging tortoises may try to eat it, and the animal could have been poisoned elsewhere. Always err on the side of caution and keep your tortoise away from any pest control areas for at least 48 hours after treatment.
Live Trapping: The Safest Removal Method
Live traps are your best friend here. For moles, use a specialized mole live trap (like a tunnel trap) that captures them without crushing. For voles, a small box trap baited with peanut butter or apple slices works well. Place the traps in active tunnels or runways, and check them at least twice a day. Once caught, relocate the animal at least 5 miles away in a suitable habitat (like a field or forest). Make sure the release area is not near other homes or farms. Your tortoise will never know the difference, and you will have a pest-free yard without any chemical risk.
Exclusion Fencing That Works for Both Pests and Pets
A physical barrier is one of the most effective long-term solutions. For voles, bury a 1/4-inch hardware cloth or galvanized mesh at least 12 inches deep around garden beds and the perimeter of your tortoise’s enclosure. Bend the bottom outward in an L-shape to stop voles from digging under. For moles, you can install a similar underground fence around the entire yard, but it is usually easier to focus on protecting specific areas like your tortoise’s grazing zone. Just make sure the mesh has openings no larger than 1/4 inch so baby tortoises cannot squeeze through. This method keeps moles and voles out while keeping your tortoise safely contained. For more on safe outdoor spaces, check out our guide on tortoise-safe garden design.
Habitat Modification: Make Your Yard Less Inviting
Moles and voles love moist, loose soil with plenty of grubs and roots. By changing the environment, you can encourage them to move on naturally. Reduce watering in problem areas to dry out the soil slightly. Remove thatch and heavy mulch where voles like to hide. You can also introduce beneficial nematodes to control grubs (a primary food source for moles) without using chemicals. These microscopic worms are completely safe for tortoises, birds, and pets. Just follow the package instructions carefully. A less hospitable yard means fewer pests, and your tortoise will still have plenty of healthy greens to browse.
“A healthy tortoise yard is one where the only tunnels are the ones your tortoise digs to cool off, not the ones left by pests.”
Natural Repellents That Are Tortoise-Safe
Some natural repellents can help deter moles and voles without harming your tortoise. Castor oil granules or sprays are widely used and non-toxic. Apply them according to the label, but keep your tortoise away from the treated area for a few hours until the product dries. You can also plant daffodils, marigolds, or alliums around the perimeter, as voles dislike their smell. Avoid using peppermint oil or garlic oil concentrates, as these can irritate a tortoise’s sensitive eyes and respiratory system. Always test any new product on a small patch first and watch your tortoise’s behavior. If you notice any sneezing, eye rubbing, or lethargy, remove the repellent and consult your vet. For more on safe plants, see our list of tortoise-safe plants.
A single mole can tunnel up to 18 feet per hour. That is faster than most tortoises walk! But with the right fencing, you can stop them in their tracks without ever using a trap.
When To Call a Professional
If you have a large infestation or the moles and voles keep coming back, it may be time to call a wildlife removal specialist. Look for a company that uses integrated pest management (IPM) and specifically asks about pets and reptiles. Tell them you have a tortoise, and ask them to use only non-toxic, humane methods. A good professional will use exclusion, live trapping, and habitat modification, never poisons. They can also help identify entry points you might have missed. Your tortoise’s safety is worth the extra cost. If you are building a new enclosure, check out our tortoise enclosure setup guide for tips on making it pest-proof from the start.
Remember, your tortoise relies on you to keep its world safe. With these methods, you can handle a mole or vole problem gently and effectively, no poison or pain required. If you ever have doubts about a product or method, ask your veterinarian who knows your tortoise’s health history. They can give you personalized advice that keeps your shelled friend happy and healthy for years to come.