How to Trap Pocket Gophers: A Comprehensive Guide
Pocket gophers, known for their distinctive digging behavior, can cause significant damage to gardens, lawns, and agricultural fields. These burrowing rodents can be a real nuisance, as they tunnel through the soil, uprooting plants and creating unsightly mounds. To effectively deal with this problem, it is essential to understand how to trap pocket gophers. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the various methods and techniques to trap these pesky creatures.
Understanding Pocket Gophers
Before delving into the trapping methods, it is crucial to have a basic understanding of pocket gophers. These small mammals are typically found in North America and are known for their burrowing habits. They create extensive networks of tunnels, which can be quite complex. Pocket gophers feed on plant roots, bulbs, and tubers, making them a threat to gardeners and farmers alike.
Identifying Pocket Gophers
The first step in trapping pocket gophers is to identify them. Pocket gophers have a stocky body, short legs, and a large, rounded body. They have a distinctive pair of external ears, and their fur is usually dark brown or black. To determine if you have a pocket gopher problem, look for the following signs:
– Mounds of soil on your lawn or garden
– Burrow entrances, which are often seen as small holes
– Damage to plants and roots
Trapping Methods
There are several methods available for trapping pocket gophers, including:
1. Live Traps: These traps are designed to capture gophers alive and release them unharmed. There are various types of live traps, such as box traps, cage traps, and funnel traps. To use a live trap, place it in the gopher’s burrow and wait for the animal to enter.
2. Pound Traps: Pound traps are designed to kill the gopher upon capture. These traps are placed in the burrow and are triggered when the gopher pushes against them. It is essential to check the trap regularly to ensure the gopher is killed humanely.
3. Gas Traps: Gas traps are another option for eliminating pocket gophers. These traps release a toxic gas that suffocates the gopher. However, gas traps can be dangerous to humans and pets if not used properly, so they should be used with caution.
4. Poison Traps: Poison traps use a baited bait to lure the gopher into the trap. Once the gopher consumes the bait, it will die. However, the use of poison traps can be harmful to other animals and the environment, so it is advisable to use them as a last resort.
Preventing Future Infestations
Once you have successfully trapped the pocket gophers, it is essential to take steps to prevent future infestations. Here are some tips:
– Fill in any burrow entrances to disrupt the gopher’s tunnel system.
– Remove food sources, such as fallen fruit or vegetables, from your garden.
– Plant gopher-resistant plants or use gopher barriers to protect your garden.
Conclusion
Trapping pocket gophers can be a challenging task, but with the right knowledge and tools, it is possible to effectively deal with this problem. By understanding the behavior of pocket gophers, identifying the signs of their presence, and utilizing the appropriate trapping methods, you can protect your garden and property from these burrowing rodents. Remember to always prioritize humane and environmentally friendly methods when dealing with pocket gophers.
