According to experts, numbers of moles in the UK have increased since 2006, when the use of Strychnine was banned. It is now estimated that there are in excess of 31million of them in the UK.

In Cringleford it seems that we to have our fair share – I am sure we are not the only household to watch in horror as molehills escalate on our lawn. However, I am discovering some fascinating facts about “the little gentlemen in black velvet”:

• Moles are believed to operate 4 hour shifts, working for four hours and then sleeping for four.
• During their waking time they will patrol their tunnels for earth worms, insects and grubs. They need on average 20 worms a day to survive.
• Molehills are waste material from digging or repairing burrows, and so are usually found where the animal is establishing new burrows, or where existing ones are damaged.
• A mole run can be 200 metres long.
• If moles catch a worm which they don’t want to eat immediately they will bite of its head – leaving it alive and dormant i.e fresh .
• A mole can burrow up to 25 metres a day.

The majority of molecatchers look to kill their prey both humanely and ethically. Keith Sturman from A1 vermin Control Services (01603 504317) prefers to use traps which are checked regularly.  Despite his profession he admits a grudging respect for the mole and takes care that they don’t suffer unduly. He is seen here pictured at work surrounded by the ravages of our one time flat, green lawn…….