If holes suddenly appear in the garden soil, uninvited visitors are at work. But mostly there is nothing to be seen of them far and wide. If greater damage is imminent, any evildoer must be chased away with appropriate measures. But which animal is digging there? The holes themselves provide crucial clues.
Mice are not welcome in the garden
birds and hedgehogs
Birds and hedgehogs leave holes about 2 cm deep that they dug in search of food. The food is pests in the soil, which is why these holes can also be welcomed with joy. Only if they accumulate in such a way and make a lawn unsightly, for example, should something be done about it.
worms
A particularly large number of small holes with a diameter of a few centimeters indicate earthworms. Small balls of earth around the hole are another indication that points to these animals. The holes are not really to be regarded as damage, rather the worms in the ground are a sign of a healthy layer of soil.
mice
In the garden we usually deal with two types of mice: shrews and voles. The shrew is an insectivore, so there is no risk of damage to plants. The holes, about two centimeters wide, are entrances to their tunnel system.
The vole also digs underground passages, which of course have openings as entrances. In addition, small mounds of earth are distributed here and there in which plant remains can also be found. The vole is a major plant pest in the garden.
moles
The clearest indication that a mole is raging in the garden is given by its mounds of earth and less by the holes it has dug. They can be piled up to 25 high and 30 cm wide. Moles are not harmful and are protected. It is purely visual aspects that cause a garden owner to drive the animal off his property.
rats
Holes 8 to 12 cm in diameter, protruding directly into the ground, are believed to have been dug by rats. Sprinkle white baby powder around the hole. You will soon notice from traces whether the building is still inhabited. A rat infestation must be reported to the competent authority.
Larger wildlife
- occasionally wild rabbits and hares are the culprits
- the holes for their construction are large
- nearby signs of feeding can be discovered on plants
- Badgers, foxes and raccoons tend to dig superficial burrows
- clear scratch marks can be seen
- however, they rarely develop into permanent visitors