Gopher

Gophers

Pocket gophers are small burrowing rodents of the Geomyidae family. They are aptly named for their large fur-lined pouches or “pockets” on both sides of their mouth. Gophers are often confused with moles and voles due to their burrowing and eating habits.

Identifying a gopher

Gophers are wonderfully adapted for life underground; equipped with powerful fore paws with large claws used for digging and prominent curved, incisors. Interestingly, the lips close behind the incisors so they may dig without getting soil in their mouth. They have tiny eyes and small external ears, which are poor in vision and hearing. Their tail is short in relation to their body.

Variations of size and coloration of fur is relative to breeding activity. For example, a gopher’s low dispersal rate will result in adaptation to environmental conditions. Considering these factors, sizes vary from 5 to 14 inches in length with fur color ranging from black to pale brown. Fur is also very soft and fine.

Damage

Gophers can cause extensive damage to underground utility lines, pipes and irrigation. This damage can be difficult to find and expensive to repair. Losses caused by burrowing also results in weakening of structures and the destruction of plants by stem girdling, root pruning and exposure to the roots. In addition, areas inhabited by gophers are more susceptible to erosion.

Life cycle

Gophers live secluded, solitary lives with the exception of breeding season in late winter and early spring. Gophers are born from March to June with 1 litter a year. In the southern region, 2 litters are born and in California, gophers can breed year round. The gestation period is 18 to 19 days with an average litter size of 3 to 4.

Habitat

Gophers are found in a wide variety of habitats including, mountainous regions to deserts and rain forests. Exceptions are, soil high in clay content or soil that is constantly wet. These types of soils are inadequate for drainage to allow proper gas exchange between the tunnel and atmosphere.

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