How To Get Rid Of Gophers Comprehensive Guide

Gophers, those pesky subterranean rodents, can quickly turn a lush garden into a disaster zone. Their insatiable appetite for plant roots and tubers makes them a formidable foe for any gardener. If you're tired of finding your prized plants mysteriously disappearing, or your lawn looking like a minefield, you've come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will arm you with the knowledge and strategies you need to effectively get rid of gophers and reclaim your garden. We'll explore various methods, from humane deterrents to more aggressive control measures, so you can choose the approach that best suits your situation and ethical considerations. So, let's dive in and learn how to evict these unwanted guests from your property.

Understanding the Gopher Menace

Before we jump into the how-to, let's understand our enemy. Gophers are rodents belonging to the family Geomyidae, and they're notorious for their extensive burrow systems. These systems can stretch for hundreds of feet, with multiple tunnels and chambers, providing gophers with a safe haven and easy access to food – your garden plants! Understanding their habits and behaviors is crucial for effective gopher control. Gophers are primarily herbivores, feeding on the roots, stems, and leaves of a wide variety of plants. They're particularly fond of roots and tubers, which is why they can be so destructive to gardens and lawns. Unlike moles, which primarily feed on insects and grubs, gophers directly target your plants, making them a more significant threat to your garden's health.

Gopher activity is often characterized by mounds of soil that they push out of their tunnels. These mounds are usually crescent-shaped and are a clear sign that gophers are present. The mounds can be unsightly and can also damage lawnmowers and other equipment. In addition to the mounds, gophers can also cause damage by gnawing on underground cables and irrigation lines. Their constant tunneling can also destabilize soil, leading to erosion and damage to foundations and walkways. Gophers are most active during the spring and fall, but they can be active year-round in areas with mild climates. They are solitary creatures, except during mating season, so a single gopher can cause a significant amount of damage. Identifying the signs of gopher activity early on is crucial for preventing a full-blown infestation.

To effectively combat gophers, it's essential to distinguish them from other burrowing animals like moles and voles. Moles, as mentioned earlier, are primarily insectivores and create raised ridges in the lawn rather than distinct mounds. Voles, on the other hand, are smaller than gophers and typically create surface runways through the grass. Identifying the specific pest allows you to tailor your control methods for maximum effectiveness. For instance, mole traps and vole baits are unlikely to work on gophers, and vice versa. By understanding the differences in their behavior and habits, you can choose the right tools and strategies to eliminate the gopher problem.

Effective Strategies for Gopher Control

Now that we've got a grasp on who we're dealing with, let's explore some effective strategies for getting rid of gophers. There's no one-size-fits-all solution, so we'll cover a range of methods, from humane deterrents to more aggressive approaches. The best approach will depend on the severity of the infestation, your personal preferences, and local regulations. Remember to always follow the instructions and safety precautions when using any control method.

1. Humane Deterrents: Keeping Gophers Away Naturally

If you prefer a more gentle approach, several humane deterrents can help keep gophers away without harming them. These methods often involve creating an unpleasant environment for gophers, encouraging them to relocate to a more suitable habitat. One popular method is using repellent plants. Certain plants, like gopher spurge, castor bean, and daffodils, are known to deter gophers due to their strong odors or toxic properties. Planting these around your garden can create a natural barrier, discouraging gophers from entering. However, it's crucial to research the toxicity of these plants, especially if you have pets or children, as some can be harmful if ingested.

Another effective deterrent is noise. Gophers are sensitive to vibrations and loud noises, so using ultrasonic devices or wind chimes can help keep them away. Ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to gophers, while wind chimes create vibrations that can disrupt their underground activity. However, the effectiveness of these methods can vary, and gophers may eventually become accustomed to the noise. Rotating the location of the devices or using a combination of deterrents can help maintain their effectiveness. Predator urine, such as coyote or fox urine, is another natural deterrent that can mimic the presence of predators, scaring gophers away. You can purchase predator urine at garden centers or online and apply it around your property. Reapplication may be necessary after rain or irrigation.

Physical barriers are also an excellent way to deter gophers from specific areas. Burying hardware cloth or wire mesh around your garden beds or individual plants can prevent gophers from accessing the roots. This method is particularly effective for protecting valuable plants or areas prone to gopher damage. When installing barriers, make sure to bury them at least 2-3 feet deep to prevent gophers from tunneling underneath. For individual plants, you can create wire cages around the roots to protect them from gopher feeding. These cages can be made from hardware cloth or chicken wire and should be large enough to allow the plant's roots to grow.

2. Trapping: A Direct Approach to Gopher Removal

For more severe infestations, trapping can be an effective way to directly remove gophers from your property. Several types of gopher traps are available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common types include Macabee traps, Black Box traps, and cinch traps. Macabee traps are scissor-jaw traps that are placed directly in the gopher tunnel. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to use but can be dangerous if not handled properly. Black Box traps are enclosed traps that capture gophers alive, allowing you to relocate them. These traps are considered more humane but require more effort to set and monitor. Cinch traps are another type of scissor-jaw trap that is placed in the gopher tunnel. They are similar to Macabee traps but have a different triggering mechanism.

Proper trap placement is crucial for success. To find active gopher tunnels, look for fresh mounds of soil. Probe the ground near the mound with a metal rod or gopher probe until you locate the tunnel. The tunnel will feel like a sudden drop in resistance. Once you've found a tunnel, carefully excavate a small section to expose the tunnel. Set the trap according to the manufacturer's instructions and place it in the tunnel, covering it with soil to block out light and air. This encourages the gopher to enter the trap. Check the traps regularly, preferably daily, and remove any captured gophers. If you're using live traps, relocate the gophers to a suitable habitat at least five miles away from your property to prevent them from returning.

Baiting the traps can increase their effectiveness. Gophers are attracted to certain foods, such as peanut butter, apples, and carrots. Placing a small amount of bait near the trap's trigger can entice gophers to enter. However, be careful not to use too much bait, as this can make the gopher suspicious. Always wear gloves when handling traps and captured gophers to prevent the spread of disease and to avoid leaving your scent on the traps. Trapping can be a time-consuming process, and it may take several attempts to capture all the gophers in an area. Persistence and patience are key to success.

3. Baits and Poisons: A Controversial Option

Using baits and poisons to control gophers is a controversial topic. While these methods can be effective, they also pose risks to non-target animals, including pets and wildlife. If you choose to use baits or poisons, it's crucial to do so responsibly and follow all safety precautions. Zinc phosphide baits are a common type of gopher poison. They work by releasing phosphine gas in the gopher's stomach, which is toxic. These baits are typically available in pellet or grain form and are placed directly in the gopher tunnels. However, zinc phosphide is also toxic to other animals, so it's essential to use it carefully and prevent access by pets and wildlife.

Anticoagulant baits are another type of gopher poison. These baits work by preventing blood clotting, leading to internal bleeding. Anticoagulant baits are available in various forms, including blocks, pellets, and granules. While they are generally considered less toxic to non-target animals than zinc phosphide, they still pose a risk. It's crucial to use tamper-resistant bait stations to prevent access by pets and wildlife. Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when using baits and poisons. Wear gloves and protective clothing to avoid contact with the chemicals. Place the baits deep inside the gopher tunnels to minimize the risk of exposure to non-target animals. Dispose of any unused bait properly, according to local regulations.

Consider the ethical implications before using baits and poisons. These methods can cause a slow and painful death for gophers and can also harm other animals. If you're concerned about the potential risks, consider using humane deterrents or trapping as alternative control methods. If you do choose to use baits or poisons, monitor the treated area closely for any signs of non-target animal poisoning. If you suspect an animal has been poisoned, contact a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitation center immediately.

Preventing Future Gopher Infestations

Once you've successfully gotten rid of the gophers in your garden, the next step is to prevent them from returning. Implementing preventive measures can save you time, effort, and frustration in the long run. One of the most effective ways to prevent gopher infestations is to install underground fencing. Burying hardware cloth or wire mesh around your property or garden beds can create a physical barrier that gophers cannot penetrate. This method is particularly effective for protecting valuable plants or areas prone to gopher damage. When installing fencing, make sure to bury it at least 2-3 feet deep to prevent gophers from tunneling underneath. Extend the fencing above ground by at least 1 foot to prevent gophers from climbing over it.

Maintaining a healthy lawn and garden can also help deter gophers. Gophers are attracted to areas with lush vegetation and abundant food sources. By keeping your lawn mowed and your garden free of weeds and debris, you can make your property less appealing to gophers. Avoid overwatering your lawn and garden, as this can create favorable conditions for gophers. Repair any holes or tunnels promptly to prevent gophers from establishing new colonies. Remove any fallen fruits or vegetables from your garden, as these can attract gophers and other pests. Regularly inspect your property for signs of gopher activity, such as mounds or tunnels. Early detection is crucial for preventing a full-blown infestation.

Consider planting gopher-resistant plants in your garden. Certain plants, such as lavender, rosemary, and sage, are less attractive to gophers due to their strong odors or textures. Planting these around your garden can create a natural barrier, discouraging gophers from entering. However, keep in mind that gophers may still eat these plants if other food sources are scarce. Encouraging natural predators can also help control gopher populations. Owls, hawks, and snakes are natural predators of gophers. Providing habitat for these animals, such as nesting boxes or perches, can encourage them to visit your property and help keep gopher numbers in check. Avoid using rodenticides or other poisons that can harm these predators.

Conclusion: Reclaim Your Garden from Gophers

Gophers can be a frustrating and destructive pest, but with the right knowledge and strategies, you can effectively get rid of them and protect your garden. We've explored a range of methods, from humane deterrents to trapping and baits, so you can choose the approach that best suits your needs and preferences. Remember to always follow safety precautions and consider the ethical implications of your chosen control method. By understanding gopher behavior, implementing effective control strategies, and taking preventive measures, you can reclaim your garden from these pesky rodents and enjoy a thriving landscape. Don't let gophers get the best of you – take action today and create a gopher-free oasis!