Why is control of rabbits and moles necessary?

In most cases rabbits and moles do not present a major problem. However the burrowing activity of rabbits can lead to the serious undermining of paths, roads and rail lines and create specific hazards for horses and cattle causing broken limbs. Similarly mole holes and runs can create dangerous terrain for these animals. High numbers of rabbits and moles can cause severe damage to crops and shrubberies and rabbits can even cause ring-barking of trees with fatal consequences. Mole activity can spoil silage and meadow ground, cause damage to machinery and undermine soil fertility.