Identify Gopher Activity
Gophers are small, burrowing rodents that can cause significant damage to lawns, gardens, and other outdoor areas. Identifying gopher activity is the first step in controlling and eliminating these pests. Here are some signs to look for:
Mounds of Dirt
Gophers create mounds of dirt as they dig tunnels and burrows. These mounds are typically fan-shaped, with a central hole. They can range in size from a few inches to several feet in diameter.
Runways
Gophers often create well-defined runways in the grass or soil. These runways are typically several inches wide and are created by the gophers repeatedly running along the same path.
Chewed Vegetation
Gophers feed on the roots and stems of plants, leaving behind chewed and damaged vegetation. They may also clip leaves and stems, creating a ragged appearance.
Other Signs
Other signs of gopher activity include:
- Holes in the ground
- Gnawed roots
- Noises such as squeaks or whistles
- Tracks or footprints
Table of Gopher Activity Signs
| Sign | Description |
|---|---|
| Mounds of Dirt | Fan-shaped mounds with a central hole |
| Runways | Well-defined paths in the grass or soil |
| Chewed Vegetation | Damaged plants with ragged leaves and stems |
| Holes | Holes in the ground where gophers enter and exit their burrows |
| Gnawed Roots | Chewed roots of plants |
Baiting Techniques for Gophers
Gophers are small rodents known for their tunneling and gardening habits. Trapping them can be challenging, but baiting techniques can increase your chances of success.
Vegetable Baiting
Gophers are primarily herbivores, so fresh vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or celery can be effective bait.
Fruit Baiting
Apples, oranges, and grapes can also be used as bait. Remove the peel to expose the sweet flesh.
Nut Baiting
Gophers are fond of nuts, particularly peanuts. Place them in the trap whole or spread peanut butter on the bait.
Special Baiting Techniques
For particularly stubborn gophers, try the following techniques:
- Vegetable Oil: Gophers find the smell of vegetable oil irresistible. Dabbing a small amount on the bait can attract them.
- Fabric Softener Balls: The scent of fabric softener is highly appealing to gophers. Place a ball near the trap to lure them in.
- Gum: Chewing gum contains sugar and other ingredients that gophers love. Place a piece on the bait to enhance its appeal.
| Bait | Effectiveness |
|---|---|
| Vegetables | Good |
| Fruit | Moderate |
| Nuts | Good |
| Vegetable Oil | Very good |
| Fabric Softener Balls | Excellent |
| Gum | Good |
Protect Your Traps from the Elements
Gophers are known for their burrowing abilities and can easily dig up and damage traps if not properly protected. Here are some detailed steps to safeguard your traps from the elements:
1. Choose a trap that is weather-resistant. Look for traps made of galvanized steel or aluminum, which are less likely to rust or corrode.
2. Place traps in a covered area. If possible, set traps in a tunnel or burrow where they will be protected from rain, snow, and wind.
3. Cover traps with soil or vegetation. After placing the trap, cover it with a thin layer of soil or leaves to blend it with the surrounding environment and protect it from the elements.
4. Secure traps firmly in place. Use stakes or wire to secure traps in the ground so that they do not move or overturn. This will prevent gophers from digging under or around the traps.
5. Use rain shields or covers. For added protection, you can use specialized rain shields or covers that are designed to fit over traps and keep them dry. Some traps also come with built-in weather protection features such as a hinged lid or a waterproof casing. Consider the following options:
| Type of Protection | Description |
|---|---|
| Rain shield | A metal or plastic shield that is placed over the trap to protect it from rain and moisture. |
| Waterproof casing | A trap that is enclosed in a waterproof housing, preventing water from entering and damaging the trap or bait. |
| Hinged lid | A trap with a hinged lid that can be closed to protect the bait from the elements and prevent gophers from escaping. |
Monitor Traps and Respond Promptly
Once you have set your traps, it is crucial to monitor them regularly to maximize your chances of catching a gopher. Here’s a detailed guide on monitoring your traps:
-
Check Traps Daily:
Visit your traps at least once a day, ideally both in the morning and evening, as gophers are most active during these times. -
Inspect Trap Triggers:
Carefully examine each trap to see if the trigger has been set off. If the trigger is missing, it indicates that a gopher has been caught. -
Identify Triggering Species:
Before opening a trap, note the location and contents to determine whether the trigger was activated by a gopher or a non-target animal such as a rabbit or bird. -
Release Non-Target Animals:
If a non-target animal has triggered the trap, release it immediately. Handle the animal with care and relocate it to a safe distance away from your trap site. -
Remove Caught Gophers:
If a gopher has been caught, remove it from the trap using thick gloves or tongs. Place the gopher in a covered container with air holes for transportation to its release site. -
Reset Traps:
After removing a caught gopher or releasing a non-target animal, reset the trap immediately to maximize your chances of catching additional gophers. Ensure the trap is properly set and secured to prevent accidental triggering.
Release Captured Gophers Responsibly
Once you have successfully captured a gopher, it is important to release it responsibly to avoid any potential harm to the animal or the environment. Here are some steps you should follow:
1. Check for Injuries
Before releasing the gopher, carefully inspect it for any injuries sustained during the capture. If you notice any wounds or signs of distress, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.
2. Choose a Suitable Release Location
Select a release location that is at least 100 feet away from your home or other structures. The area should be a natural habitat where gophers are commonly found, with plenty of vegetation and ground cover.
3. Dig a Shallow Hole
Dig a shallow hole, approximately 6 inches deep and 8 inches wide, in the release location. This will provide the gopher with a safe and temporary shelter while it readjusts to its surroundings.
4. Line the Hole with Vegetation
Line the bottom and sides of the hole with soft vegetation such as grass, leaves, or pine needles. This will create a comfortable and insulating environment for the gopher.
5. Transfer the Gopher
Gently transfer the captured gopher into the lined hole. Handle it with care, avoiding any unnecessary stress or harm.
6. Cover the Hole
Cover the hole loosely with the vegetation or soil that you removed earlier. Avoid packing it down too tightly, as the gopher needs to be able to escape if necessary.
7. Leave the Area
Once the gopher has been released, leave the area quietly and do not disturb it. Give it time to recover and adjust to its new surroundings without any additional stress or interference.
Prevent Future Gopher Invasions
Once you have eliminated the current gopher problem, it is important to take steps to prevent future infestations. Here are some effective strategies:
8. Deter Gophers with Plants
Certain plants are known to repel gophers naturally. Planting these around your property can help keep them away. Consider adding the following to your garden:
| Plant | Description |
|---|---|
| Euphorbia lathyris (Caper spurge) | Produces a sap that gophers find distasteful |
| Rhizophora mangle (Mangrove tree) | Has a dense root system that gophers avoid |
| Tagetes (Marigolds) | Releases a pungent scent that repels gophers |
| Allium sativum (Garlic) | Contains sulfur compounds that gophers find unpleasant |
| Salvia leucantha (Purple sage) | Produces a strong aroma that gophers are sensitive to |
| Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender) | Releases a calming scent that discourages gophers |
Remember to plant these repellents around your yard, gardens, and potential entry points for gophers.
How To Catch A Gopher
Gophers are small, burrowing rodents that can cause extensive damage to lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields. They feed on roots, bulbs, and other underground plant material, and their burrows can disrupt irrigation systems and damage plant roots. There are a number of different ways to catch a gopher, including trapping, poisoning, and gassing.
Trapping is one of the most effective ways to catch a gopher. Gopher traps are available at most hardware stores and home improvement centers. The traps are typically baited with a piece of fruit or vegetable, and they are placed in the gopher’s burrow. When the gopher enters the trap, it triggers a mechanism that closes the trap and captures the animal.
Poisoning is another option for catching a gopher. Gopher poisons are available in a variety of forms, including pellets, powders, and liquids. The poisons are typically placed in the gopher’s burrow, and they are ingested by the gopher when it feeds. Gopher poisons can be effective, but they should be used with caution, as they can also be harmful to other animals.
Gassing is a less common method of catching a gopher. Gassing involves pumping a toxic gas into the gopher’s burrow. The gas kills the gopher, but it can also be harmful to other animals and humans. Gassing should only be used as a last resort, and it should be done by a qualified professional.
People Also Ask About How To Catch A Gopher
What is the best way to catch a gopher?
The best way to catch a gopher is to use a gopher trap. Gopher traps are available at most hardware stores and home improvement centers. The traps are typically baited with a piece of fruit or vegetable, and they are placed in the gopher’s burrow. When the gopher enters the trap, it triggers a mechanism that closes the trap and captures the animal.
How do you get rid of gophers naturally?
There are a number of natural ways to get rid of gophers, including:
- Planting gopher-resistant plants.
- Creating a physical barrier around your property.
- Using natural predators, such as owls and hawks.
- Applying natural repellents, such as castor oil or peppermint oil.
What are the signs of a gopher infestation?
The following are some of the signs of a gopher infestation:
- Mounds of dirt in your lawn or garden.
- Dead or dying plants.
- Damaged irrigation systems.
- Holes in your yard.
- Gophers running through your yard.
