Geomyidae

Gophers are small, furry rodents that burrow expansive tunnels in the ground. They have external fur-lined cheek pouches or pockets that they use to store and transport food in. They live throughout North America, in woodlands, grass prairies, and often invade yards and gardens. There are 35 species of gophers.

Identification – What do gophers look like?

Gophers are brown in color, with light colored fur on the front of their body, and white paws and tails. Gophers are medium-sized rodents. They range from 5 to 14 inches long and weight from 1 – 2 pounds. They have small eyes and ears, a flat head, four large incisors, which continue to grow throughout the gopher’s life. Gophers have a stout body, short powerful legs, and broad feet with large claws. They live up to 3 years.

Habitat and Habits of gophers

Gophers are active during the day, and live most of their lives underground. They eat, sleep, and have their babies (pups) underground. Gophers can have up to 3 litters a year in irrigated areas and generally 1 litter a year in non irrigated areas. They do not hibernate and are active year round.

Diet – What do gophers eat?

Gophers are herbivores and feed on a wide variety of vegetation. Most often they feed on roots and tubers. When they eat above the ground, the gopher will poke itself out of a “feed hole” just enough to grab a nearby plant. Then, they will pull the entire plant into their burrow. Gophers can inflict a considerable amount of damage in a very short amount of time.

Gopher Control- How to get rid of gophers?

Rocky Mountain Bird and Pest can identify the type of gophers you have, remove the gophers, and offer advice on how to prevent their return. We offer environmentally responsible pest control, call to discuss your gopher problems.