Moles are protected, which is why they cannot be killed or hunted. Anyone who violates this will face severe punishment. Find out below why the mole is protected, what is forbidden and permitted and what fines await those who do not comply with the regulations.
What is the pen alty for killing a mole?
Killing, hunting or injuring moles is prohibited in Germany and, depending on the federal state, can be punished with fines of up to €65,000. As a protected species, moles should instead be driven out of the garden using gentle means.
Why is the mole under protection?
Even if many garden lovers throw up their hands when they discover fresh molehills in the garden: the mole is a beneficial insect, for two reasons:
- The mole is a great pest controller: it eats snails, grubs and other insects
- The mole mixes different layers of earth, aerates the soil and thus ensures he althy soil quality.
Tip
Unlike the vole, the mole does not eat plant roots and therefore does not damage garden plants.
What is forbidden?: Killing, hunting and driving away moles
As a protected animal, the mole cannot be hunted, injured or caught. The mole usually does not survive live traps either, as even half a day without food can be fatal for the mole. Therefore, this measure is also prohibited. If you still want to get rid of the mole from your garden, you can do this using gentle means such as smells, wind turbines or ultrasonic devices.
Tip
An abandoned mole burrow is often taken over by voles - they damage your garden plants! Therefore, fill the building with earth and sand.
Pen alties for killing moles
The fines for killing, hunting and injuring moles depend on the federal state. In almost all federal states the maximum pen alty is up to €50,000. An exception is Brandenburg with fines of up to €65,000, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania with a maximum pen alty of €20,000, Rhineland-Palatinate with €5,000 and Saarland with €10,000. A prison sentence can also be imposed if the crime is particularly serious, such as killing or torturing several animals.
