Pocket gophers are commonly called moles. They are a problem in pastures and farmland throughout much of Alberta. Pocket gophers tend to feed above ground in late spring and early summer, when stems and leaves are most nutritious. As the nutritional quality of stems and leaves declines, pocket gophers turn to feeding below ground on roots and other plant parts. They create extensive burrow systems in search of food. Soil from the burrows is deposited in mounds above ground. One animal may make up to fifty (50) mounds per year through its burrowing. Pocket gophers are active throughout the winter, feeding and burrowing beneath the snow.
Pocket gophers often invade yards and gardens, feeding on many garden crops, ornamental
plants, vines, shrubs, and trees. A single gopher moving down a garden row can inflict
considerable damage in a very short time. Gophers also can gnaw and damage plastic
water lines and lawn sprinkler systems. Their tunnels can divert and carry off irrigation
water, which leads to soil erosion. Mounds on lawns interfere with mowing equipment
and ruin the aesthetics of well-
Trapping is a safe and effective method for controlling pocket gophers. Speak to a professional applicator for the right advice.
