What is one method of controlling voles in Pennsylvania?

Keeping grass cut low to reduce cover from predators is an effective method for controlling voles in Pennsylvania. Voles thrive in environments where they have ample cover to hide from predation, making overgrown grass and dense vegetation ideal habitats for them. By maintaining a well-manicured landscape, property owners can create an environment that is less favorable for voles, as they are more exposed and vulnerable to their natural predators such as hawks, owls, and snakes. This practice not only helps in managing the vole population but can also enhance the overall health of the landscape.

Utilizing chemical pesticides freely can lead to environmental contamination and may pose risks to non-target species, while trapping voles exclusively may not address the entire population effectively. Hunting during specific seasons does not specifically target voles and may not be practical for managing their populations compared to vegetation management strategies. Thus, maintaining low grass is a proactive approach to reducing vole numbers naturally by limiting their protective cover.