Gophers

Learn More About these Landscape-Destroying Salt Lake City Pests

Gophers, known scientifically as pocket gophers, are small burrowing rodents identifiable by their robust bodies, strong clawed front paws, and fur-lined cheek pouches — traits that make them incredibly adept at navigating underground. Their name comes from these cheek pouches, where they carry food and nesting materials. These small creatures typically measure 6 to 13 inches long, with a tail adding another 3 to 5 inches. They are mostly solitary, save for the breeding season, and occupy extensive burrow systems that showcase their prowess in soil excavation.

Unfortunately, these cuddly-looking critters can become a real headache for property owners. The same digging habits that make gophers fascinating to naturalists underlie their reputation as notorious landscape destroyers. Their constant burrowing can wreak havoc on gardens and lawns, disrupting the aesthetic of well-manicured spaces. They are known to damage underground cables, irrigation pipes, and plant roots, often resulting in costly repairs and replacements. Recognizing the early signs of gopher activity and seeking professional intervention, such as services provided by Pest Pro Pest Control, can prevent these subterranean residents from turning your property into their personal playground.

How to Identify Gophers

Identifying a gopher infestation is key to taking swift action and protecting your property from further damage. Different types of gophers behave differently and prefer different habitats, and with careful observation, you can determine which species of gopher has made itself at home on your property.

Gopher varieties common to the Salt Lake City area include: 

• Botta's pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae): Often found in a variety of habitats, this species is known for its fur-lined pouches and brownish fur.
• Northern pocket gopher (Thomomys talpoides): Preferring the sandy soils of lower elevations, they can be identified by their smaller size and darker fur.
• Plains pocket gopher (Geomys bursarius): This gopher has a more substantial build and is distinguished by its preference for grasslands and softer soil for digging.

Spotting the signs early and knowing the specific type of gopher you're dealing with can greatly assist in forming an effective control strategy. 

Are Gophers Dangerous to Humans and Pets?

While gophers are not commonly known to be directly aggressive towards humans or pets, their presence on your property can pose indirect health risks. Gophers can carry fleas and ticks in their fur, which can then be transferred to pets or people who come into contact with infested soil or gopher burrows. These parasites can potentially spread various diseases, such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Additionally, gopher activity can disturb the soil and unearth bacteria and viruses, potentially impacting the health of humans and animals who share their environment.

The risk to household pets is not solely a matter of disease. Curious pets like dogs or cats may dig into gopher tunnels, risking injury from collapsing burrows or possibly coming into contact with sharp underground objects. While gopher-related health risks to humans and pets are typically low, remaining cautious in areas with known gopher activity is still advisable.

Get more information about gophers by calling Pest Pro Pest Control in Salt Lake City at (385) 314-4973!