Gophers: Identification, Behavior, and Treatment

Scientific Name

Family: Geomyidae

What Do Gophers Look Like?

Gophers are small, stocky rodents with unique features that help them burrow underground:

• Color: Brown or gray fur to blend in with soil.

• Size: About 5 to 14 inches long.

• Teeth: Large front teeth (incisors) that are always visible, even when their mouths are closed.

• Paws: Strong, clawed front paws for digging.

Where Are Gophers Found?

Gophers are typically found in outdoor areas where they can dig extensive tunnel systems:

• Lawns and Gardens: Gophers feed on roots, bulbs, and plants, causing damage to landscaping.

• Agricultural Fields: Gophers are known to cause damage to crops.

• Golf Courses and Parks: These areas are also susceptible to gopher infestations.

Gophers prefer loose, sandy soil that makes it easier for them to dig their tunnels.

Signs of a Gopher Infestation

Here are some common signs that you may have a gopher problem on your property:

• Mounds of Dirt: Gophers push dirt to the surface, creating crescent-shaped mounds.

• Damaged Plants: Gophers eat the roots of plants, causing them to wilt or die.

• Tunnels and Holes: Visible holes in your lawn or garden may indicate gopher tunnels.

• Uneven Ground: Gopher tunnels can cause the ground to become uneven and unstable.

Are Gophers Dangerous?

While gophers are not directly dangerous to humans, they can cause significant property damage:

• Landscape Damage: Gophers can destroy lawns, gardens, and ornamental plants.

• Soil Erosion: Their extensive tunnel systems can lead to soil erosion and destabilization.

• Utility Damage: Gophers may damage underground utility lines, including irrigation systems.

How to Prevent Gopher Infestations

Preventing gopher infestations requires a combination of deterrents and maintenance:

• Install Barriers: Use underground barriers, such as mesh or wire, to protect gardens and flower beds.

• Eliminate Food Sources: Remove plants that attract gophers, such as certain vegetables and bulbs.

• Maintain Your Lawn: Keep your lawn and garden well-maintained to reduce gopher habitats.

• Fill Holes: Regularly inspect your property and fill any gopher holes to prevent further tunneling.

Candor Pest Control’s Gopher Treatment Process

At Candor Pest Control, we offer comprehensive gopher control solutions to eliminate infestations and protect your property. Our process includes:

1. Inspection: We conduct a thorough inspection of your property to identify gopher activity and damage.

2. Targeted Treatments: We use safe, effective methods to eliminate gophers from your lawn and garden.

3. Preventive Measures: We provide recommendations to help you prevent future gopher infestations.

4. Follow-Up Services: We offer follow-up treatments to ensure gophers don’t return.

Why Choose Candor Pest Control for Gopher Control?

• Local Expertise: We understand the unique pest challenges in the Treasure Valley area.

• Family-Owned Business: We care about protecting your home and property from pests.

• Guaranteed Results: We stand by our gopher treatments with a customer satisfaction guarantee.