Moles are protected, so they cannot be killed or hunted. Those who act contrary to this expect severe penalties. Find out below why the mole is under protection, what is forbidden and allowed and what fines await those who do not comply with the regulations.

Moles must not be killed

Why is the mole under protection?

Although many garden lovers throw up their hands over their heads when they discover fresh molehills in the garden, moles are beneficial for two reasons:

  • The mole is a great pest fighter: it eats snails, grubs and other insects
  • The mole mixes different layers of soil, aerates the soil and thus ensures a healthy soil quality.

tips

Unlike the vole, the mole does not eat plant roots and therefore does not damage garden plants.

What is forbidden?: Kill, hunt and drive away moles

As a protected animal, the mole must not be hunted, harmed or caught. The mole usually does not survive live traps either, as even half a day without food can be deadly for the mole. Therefore, this measure is also prohibited.
If you still want to drive the mole out of your garden, you can do so with gentle means such as smells, windmills or ultrasonic devices.

tips

An abandoned mole hole is often taken over by voles - they damage your garden plants! Therefore, fill up the burrow with earth and sand.

Penalties for Killing Moles

Fines for killing, hunting, and injuring moles vary by state. In almost all federal states, the maximum fine is up to €50,000. An exception is Brandenburg with fines of up to €65,000, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania with a maximum fine of €20,000, Rhineland-Palatinate with €5,000 and Saarland with €10,000. A prison sentence can also be imposed if the offense is particularly serious, such as killing or torturing several animals.

Category:

Animals in the garden