Signs of Vole Activity After Snow Melt in Calgary | Spring Lawn Damage Guide

As winter fades in Alberta, many homeowners in Calgary are surprised to discover unusual damage in their yards. Once the snow melts, hidden pest problems are revealed—and one of the most common culprits is the vole.

These small, mouse-like rodents stay active all winter under the snow, quietly damaging lawns and landscaping. By spring, the signs of vole activity become clearly visible.

What Are Voles and Why Are They Active After Winter?

Voles are small rodents that thrive in grassy and landscaped areas. Unlike mice, they primarily live outdoors and create shallow tunnels and runways just beneath the surface.

During winter, snow acts as insulation, allowing voles to:

Stay active and reproduce
Feed on grass, roots, and bark
Move undetected beneath the snow

When the snow melts, the damage becomes visible almost overnight.

Top Signs of Vole Activity in Spring

1. Surface Runways in Your Lawn

One of the most obvious signs is a network of narrow, snake-like trails across your grass. These are vole runways created under the snow.

2. Dead or Damaged Grass

You may notice patchy, brown, or flattened grass, especially in areas that were covered by snow for long periods.

3. Small Burrow Openings

Voles create small holes (about 1–2 inches wide) leading to their tunnel systems.

4. Chewed Plants and Tree Bark

Voles often feed on:

Plant roots
Garden vegetation
Bark at the base of trees and shrubs

This can seriously damage or even kill plants.

5. Soft, Spongy Lawn Areas

Your lawn may feel uneven or soft due to the underground tunnel networks.

Why Voles Are a Problem for Calgary Homeowners

Voles may look harmless, but they can cause significant property damage, including:

Destroyed lawns and landscaping
Damaged tree roots and shrubs
Increased risk of long-term yard deterioration

Because they reproduce quickly, a small problem can turn into a large infestation by spring.

When Do Voles Appear in Calgary?

Voles are active year-round, but their damage becomes most noticeable:

Early spring (March–May) after snow melt
During mild winters with heavy snow cover

This is the critical time to take action before populations grow.

How to Prevent and Control Voles

1. Clean Up Your Yard

Remove:

Excess mulch
Tall grass
Debris where voles can hide

2. Protect Trees and Plants

Use barriers or guards around tree bases to prevent chewing.

3. Monitor Early Signs

The earlier you detect vole activity, the easier it is to control.

4. Professional Pest Control

For active infestations, professional treatment is the most effective solution.

Professional Vole Control in Calgary

At Calgary Pest Control Services, we provide targeted vole control solutions designed for Alberta’s unique climate. Our technicians inspect your property, identify active areas, and apply safe, effective treatments to eliminate voles and prevent future damage.

Don’t Let Voles Destroy Your Lawn This Spring

If you’re seeing signs of vole activity after snow melt, act quickly. Early intervention can save your lawn, garden, and landscaping from costly damage.

Pest Pro Exterminator
📞 CALL 24/7 HOT LINE (833) 579-0863 OR TEXT (587) 500-8857

OR 👉 BOOK YOUR INQUIRY HERE
📍 Serving Calgary & Surrounding Areas

The Vole-inator Vole Station: Effective and Safe. Designed Specifically for Voles.

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