Gophers are small rodents that cause damage to gardens, yards, and golf courses by burrowing underground and eating plants. They can be found in many parts of the world and can be a nuisance for many homeowners. If you have a gopher problem in your yard, you may want to trap it and remove it from your property. Here are some tips on how to trap a gopher.
Identifying the Gopher
Before you can trap a gopher, you need to identify it. Gophers are burrowing rodents with fur-lined, chunky bodies and short, stocky legs. They have large front teeth and small ears and eyes. Gophers are usually brownish-gray in color, although some can be black or white. Gophers have long claws and tail that are used for digging and burrowing. They also have large front teeth used for cutting and gnawing. Gophers can grow up to 8 inches long and weigh up to 16 ounces.
Choosing the Right Trap
Once you have identified the gopher, it is time to choose the right trap. There are several different types of gopher traps available, including wire-mesh traps, box traps, and cage traps. Each type of trap has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the right one for your particular situation. Wire-mesh traps are the most common type of trap and are easy to set up. Box traps are more effective for larger gophers, while cage traps are better for trapping multiple gophers at once.
Setting the Trap
Once you have chosen the right trap, it is time to set it up. Gophers are most active during the day, so you should set your trap during the morning or early evening hours. Place the trap in the path the gopher is likely to take. You can identify the path by looking for dirt mounds and tunnels. Once the trap is set, cover it with dirt or leaves to make it less visible to the gopher. Make sure to keep children and pets away from the trap.
Bait and Preparing the Trap
Once the trap is set, it is time to bait it. Gophers are attracted to a variety of baits, including nuts, fruits, grains, and vegetables. It is important to use a bait that is fresh and appealing to the gopher. You can also use scented bait such as peanut butter or applesauce. Once the bait is placed in the trap, use a stick to make sure the bait is secure and the gopher cannot escape. You can also place some loose dirt over the bait to make it more appealing to the gopher.
Checking the Trap
Once you have set the trap and baited it, it is important to check the trap regularly. Gophers can be trapped within a few hours or a few days, so it is important to check the trap often. You should also make sure to check the trap for any signs of the gopher, such as fur or footprints. If there is a gopher in the trap, you can remove it by either releasing it in another area or humanely euthanizing it.
Preventing Future Damage
Once you have removed the gopher from your property, it is important to take steps to prevent future damage. You can do this by making sure your yard is free of debris, removing any vegetation that could attract gophers, and using gopher repellents. Additionally, you can also take steps to discourage gophers from returning, such as filling in their tunnels and blocking access to their burrows.
Conclusion
Trapping a gopher can be an effective way to remove them from your property. By following the steps outlined above, you can identify the gopher, choose the right trap, bait the trap, and check the trap for any signs of the gopher. Once the gopher is removed, you can take steps to prevent future damage, such as filling in their tunnels and using gopher repellents. With a little patience and the right equipment, you can successfully trap and remove a gopher from your property.