What type of animal is controlled when ground cover and lawns are cut back?

When ground cover and lawns are cut back, voles are the type of animal that is controlled as a result of these actions. Voles, small rodents that often inhabit grasslands and gardens, rely on dense vegetation for cover and food. By trimming back ground cover and lawns, you effectively reduce the habitat and food sources available to voles, which can lead to a decrease in their population in that area.

The other options, such as deer, squirrels, and foxes, are less directly impacted by lawn and ground cover management in this way. Deer tend to select areas with more foliage and are not primarily affected by cutting grass or ground cover. Squirrels may also move freely and find food sources in trees or structures despite changes to ground cover. Foxes, being larger and more elusive, are unlikely to be affected in a significant way by lawn maintenance, as they typically hunt and roam over larger areas.

Thus, managing the vegetation in landscapes effectively targets voles by creating a less inviting environment for them.