Moles in a Hole?

The media throbs with reports of a UK mole explosion (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/science_and_environment/10315612.stm) to estimated populations of 33-40 million (about half that of humans). In best predator-prey model traditions, this has led to a marked increase in the numbers of mole catchers (actually mole killers). The story is that the 'Wind in the Willows' mole is mythical (I would never have guessed) and the evil 'little gentleman in the velvet jacket' is intent on breaking farm equipment (by bringing stones to the surface) and giving disease to cattle. That is when he/she is not disfiguring pristine lawns by worm hunting or burrowing in sexual frenzies. Apparently, the catchers are not allowed to use strychnine to poison the mole and must resort to traps and gassing. It all seems a bit tough on the mole as it is only doing that it is designed to do.