Gopher, Mole, and Vole Differences
Gophers, moles, and voles are small burrowing animals that are often mistaken for one another. However, there are key physical characteristics that distinguish each species.
Physical Characteristics
Gophers, also known as pocket gophers, are typically larger than moles and voles. They have stout bodies with short legs and long, sharp claws that enable them to dig extensive networks of tunnels underground. The entrances to their tunnels are marked by distinctive mounds of dirt.
Moles, on the other hand, have cylindrical bodies, velvety fur, and small eyes and ears. They are adapted for a subterranean lifestyle, with paddle-like forelimbs designed for digging. Unlike gophers, moles do not create visible mounds but instead push up ridges of soil, known as molehills, as they tunnel.
Voles, often referred to as meadow mice, are the smallest of the three rodents. They resemble mice but have shorter tails and a stockier build. Voles create surface runways through vegetation as well as shallow burrows in soil, but their tunneling activity is not as extensive as that of gophers and moles.
Identifying Gopher Damage
Gophers can cause significant damage to lawns, gardens, and crops due to their burrowing behavior. By understanding the signs of gopher activity, you can take appropriate measures to address the issue.
Mounds and Holes
Gophers create mounds of fresh soil as they excavate their tunnels. These mounds are typically crescent or horseshoe-shaped and can reach heights of several inches. The openings of gopher holes are often plugged with soil, and the surrounding vegetation may show signs of wilting or damage.
It is important to note that gopher mounds can vary in size and shape depending on the species of gopher and the soil conditions.
Gopher Species Variations
There are several species of gophers, each with its own distinct characteristics. Common species include the Botta’s pocket gopher, the plains pocket gopher, and the northern pocket gopher.
Common Gopher Species
The Botta’s pocket gopher is characterized by its small size and the presence of external fur-lined cheek pouches, which it uses to transport food and nesting material. It is commonly found in California and other western states.
The plains pocket gopher is larger than the Botta’s pocket gopher and has a more robust build. It is primarily found in the Great Plains region of North America.
The northern pocket gopher, also known as the gray pocket gopher, is larger still and is found in various parts of the United States and Canada.
Gophers vs. Similar Rodents
It is important to be able to differentiate gophers from other rodents that may cause similar damage. Moles, for example, create raised ridges or molehills, rather than mounded dirt. Voles, on the other hand, create surface runways and shallower burrows with no visible mounds.
Gophers vs. Moles
While gophers and moles both tunnel underground, their burrowing behavior and physical characteristics differ. Gophers create extensive networks of tunnels and produce visible mounds, while moles create ridges and tunnels without mounding the soil. Additionally, gophers have front claws that are specialized for digging, while moles have paddle-like forelimbs.
Gophers vs. Voles
Although gophers and voles can both create burrows, voles typically cause less extensive damage. Voles are more likely to create visible runways on the surface of the ground, whereas gophers primarily create mounds and tunnels below the surface.
Gopher Control Methods
If you have identified gopher activity in your yard or garden, it is important to take appropriate measures to control their population and minimize damage.
What Attracts Gophers to Your Yard?
Gophers are attracted to yards and gardens with ample food sources. They primarily feed on plant roots, particularly those of grasses and other herbaceous plants. Thus, lush lawns and well-maintained gardens can be particularly appealing to gophers.
Recognizing Gopher Holes in Your Yard
Gopher holes are typically round or crescent-shaped openings that lead to their extensive tunnel systems. The holes are often plugged with soil and may have fresh mounds nearby. Recognizing these holes can help determine the extent of gopher activity and guide control efforts.
Methods to Repel Gophers
There are several methods to repel gophers from your yard or garden. These include the use of deterrent plants, such as castor beans or gopher spurge, which emit odors that gophers find unpleasant. Other options include installing barriers, such as wire mesh or underground fences, to prevent gophers from accessing specific areas.
Hiring a Gopher Control Service
If gophers persist despite your best efforts, it may be necessary to enlist the help of a professional gopher control service. These experts are trained to assess the extent of the infestation and employ appropriate control methods to eliminate gophers from your property.
Identifying Moles and Mole Damage
Moles are another common burrowing animal that can cause damage to lawns and gardens. By understanding the signs of mole activity, you can address the issue effectively.
Physical Characteristics of Moles
Moles have cylindrical bodies, velvety fur, and paddle-like forelimbs designed for digging. They have small eyes and ears, which are typically concealed by fur. Their burrowing activity can undermine the roots of plants and disrupt the stability of lawns and gardens.
Mole Prevention and Solutions
To prevent mole damage, certain steps can be taken. Keeping your lawn well-maintained and free of grubs, which are a food source for moles, can help deter them. Additionally, traps can be used to capture and remove moles, but it is important to check local regulations and learn proper trap-setting techniques before attempting this method.
Identifying Voles and Vole Damage
Voles, also known as meadow mice, are small rodents that can cause damage to lawns and gardens. Recognizing the signs of vole activity can help address the issue effectively.
Physical Characteristics of Voles
Voles resemble mice but have shorter tails and a stockier build. They create surface runways through vegetation and shallow burrows in soil. Voles can cause damage by feeding on plants, bulbs, and tree roots.
Vole Prevention and Solutions
To prevent vole damage, measures can be taken such as removing vegetation near the foundation of buildings, removing ground cover that provides hiding places, and installing tree guards to protect tree trunks. It may also be necessary to use traps or rely on professional vole control services for larger infestations.
How to Differentiate Gophers and Moles
Distinguishing gophers from moles can be challenging, as both tunnel underground. However, there are several key differences between the two species that can help with identification.
Physical Differences
Gophers are larger and have stout bodies with short legs and long, sharp claws. Their tunnels often result in visible mounds of soil. Moles, on the other hand, have cylindrical bodies, paddle-like forelimbs, and velvety fur. They create ridges and molehills as they tunnel, but do not produce mounds of soil.
Behavioral Differences
Gophers primarily feed on plant roots and spend most of their time underground. Moles, on the other hand, feed on worms and insects found in the soil and may come to the surface occasionally.
Dietary Differences
Gophers primarily feed on plant material, including roots, bulbs, and stems. Moles, on the other hand, feed on insects and worms that they find in the soil.
Tunnel and Mound Differences
Gophers create extensive networks of tunnels and produce visible mounds of soil. Moles create ridges and molehills as they tunnel, but do not leave visible mounds of soil.
Methods for Getting Rid of Gophers and Moles
There are several methods that can be employed to get rid of gophers and moles from your property. These methods include trapping, using repellents, and modifying the environment to make it less attractive to these rodents. It is important to choose a method that aligns with local laws and regulations and to follow proper techniques for effective control.
Final Thoughts
Gophers, moles, and voles can all cause damage to lawns and gardens if left unchecked. By understanding the physical characteristics, signs of activity, and appropriate control methods for each species, you can effectively manage and mitigate the impact of these burrowing rodents on your property.
FAQs
Q: How do gopher holes differ from mole tunnels?
A:
Gopher holes are typically round or crescent-shaped openings with visible mounds of soil nearby. Mole tunnels, on the other hand, create ridges and molehills without mounding the soil.
Q: How can I prevent gophers from damaging my garden?
A:
To prevent gopher damage, you can use deterrent plants, install barriers, or seek professional gopher control services.
Q: Are voles more destructive than gophers?
A:
Voles are generally less destructive than gophers, but their feeding habits can still cause damage to lawns, gardens, and trees.
Q: Can I remove gophers and moles on my own?
A:
Yes, you can remove gophers and moles on your own by employing trapping or repellent methods. However, it is important to follow local regulations and learn proper techniques for effective control.
