Getting rid of gophers can be challenging due to their burrowing behavior and persistence. Gophers can cause damage to your yard, garden, and landscape by digging tunnels and feeding on plant roots. Here are some methods you can try to manage and reduce gopher activity:
- Traps:
- Gopher traps are a common method of control. There are different types of traps available, such as box traps, cinch traps, and Macabee traps. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper placement and use.
- Place traps near fresh gopher mounds or active tunnels. Gophers are more likely to encounter and trigger traps when they encounter obstacles in their tunnels.
- Gopher Bait:
- Poison bait can be used, but it’s important to follow the label instructions carefully to prevent harm to other animals, pets, and humans. Be cautious when using this method, especially if you have children or pets.
- Fumigation:
- Fumigants can be used to kill gophers in their burrows. However, fumigation requires specialized equipment and expertise. It’s recommended to consult with a professional pest control service for this method.
- Flooding:
- Flooding the gopher tunnels with water can force them to evacuate. This method might not be very effective if the gophers have multiple tunnel exits. Additionally, gophers can return after the water subsides.
- Gopher Repellents:
- Commercial gopher repellents are available that emit vibrations, sounds, or odors that gophers find unpleasant. These products are designed to deter gophers from your yard. Keep in mind that the effectiveness of repellents can vary.
- Planting Resistant Plants:
- Gophers tend to avoid certain plants, so planting them in your yard or garden can reduce gopher activity. Plants like daffodils, castor beans, and gopher purge are known to be less appealing to gophers.
- Fencing:
- Installing underground wire mesh fencing around specific areas can prevent gophers from burrowing into gardens or other sensitive areas.
- Natural Predators:
- Encourage natural predators like owls, snakes, and domesticated cats to inhabit your area. These animals are known to hunt gophers and can help control their population.
- Professional Pest Control:
- If your gopher problem persists despite your efforts, consider contacting a professional pest control service. They can assess the situation and implement effective measures to manage the gopher population.
- Regular Maintenance:
- Keeping your yard well-maintained, including regularly mowing the lawn and removing excess vegetation, can make your property less attractive to gophers.
Remember that gophers play a role in ecosystems by aerating the soil and providing food for predators. If the gopher activity is not causing significant damage, you might consider tolerating their presence to some extent. However, if they are causing significant harm to your property, it’s important to take appropriate measures to manage their population.