Controlling Vole Damage

Voles are small, mouse-like rodents that exist throughout Nebraska. Though commonly called meadow or field mice, their short tails (about 1 inch long), stocky build, and small eyes distinguish them from true mice. Voles can cause problems by damaging lawns, gardens, tree plantings, and other plants.

The prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster), occurs statewide and is the most common vole in Nebraska. Meadow voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus) also are very common but cover a slightly smaller geographic area. Pine voles (Microtus pinetorum), generally are found in the southeastern corner of Nebraska long the Missouri River.

Topics include:

• Vole Facts
• Economic Importance
• Damage Identification
• Controlling Damage
• Habitat Modification
• Exclusion
• Repellents
• Traps
• Toxicants
• Fumigation and Propane-Oxygen Devices
• Safety and Health Precautions
• Integrated Pest Management

Electronic Magazine Format

This publication is available in an online magazine format, which allows you to enlarge photos and pop up additional text with more information. Roll over the photos to enlarge them. Use the magnifying tool to move around on the pages and enlarge sections. To turn a page, click on the top or bottom external corner of that page or use the arrows on the left or right margin.
Note: Controlling Vole Damage is hosted on a website external to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (zmags.com) to facilitate the interactive features.

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