This barrier should project 18 inches above the ground and 3 to 6 inches below the surface. Little data are available on the effectiveness of repellents to deter vole damage. However, in one study thiram was reported to reduce damage to apple stems by 78 percent. A 20 percent solution of chicken eggs in water has been effective in reducing deer and elk browsing and may reduce damage by voles. Thiram is manufactured by various companies and sold under various trade names.
Most labels limit the use of thiram on fruit trees to the dormant season.
Limit application to fruit-bearing plants before fruit sets or after the fruit is harvested. Predator odors, such as the urine from red foxes and coyotes, also may be effective vole repellents. These odors are not commercially manufactured, but fox and coyote urines can be purchased from some trapper supply houses. Trapping Use mouse snap traps to remove small populations of voles from backyard lawns. Place traps perpendicular to runways with the trigger end in the runway and bait with small amounts of rolled oats or peanut butter.