Evaluation of Gopher Control Methods

Evaluation of Gopher
Control Methods
Gregory A. Giusti
University of California
Cooperative Extension
Composition & Structure

How Habitat Works
Criteria that promote and maintain:
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habitat quality
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diversity
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food, water and cover
vertical and spatial diversity
species richness

seasonal utilization
Habitat Considerations – every animal
species requires “elements” to survive
throughout the year.

Thermal Cover


Cover





thermal cover
nesting cover
roosting cover
hiding cover
foraging cover

Nesting Cover

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attics, tree cavities, trees
Hiding Cover

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structures, vegetation
Roosting Cover

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structures, landscaping
landscaping, wood piles,
Foraging Cover

cover crops, landscaping
Vertebrate Pest Management

Focus should be on minimizing damage:

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identify damage and responsible specie
determine extent of damage
evaluate damage management alternatives

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both lethal and non-lethal options
evaluate alternatives that can prevent future
conflicts
Insectivore (carnivore) vs.
Rodent (herbivore)
Mole or Pocket Gopher?
Pocket Gophers
Pocket Gopher mounds have a visible
“plug” and are often crescent shape.
Pocket Gophers are highly adapted
for digging and a fossorial
(underground) life style.
Pocket Gopher Damage
Pocket Gopher Damage
Management Options
Trapping
 Baiting
 Fumigation
 Exclusion

Exclusion – a very difficult approach
for pocket gophers.
Population Reduction – Trapping
Effective and relatively easy to monitor
Population Reduction – Baiting
The key to an effective toxic baiting program is bait placement. Always place pocket
gopher bait in the main underground tunnel, not the lateral tunnels.
Remember All baits to be placed
underground
 Only registered products
 Seal opening after
baiting
 Use when weather is
expected to be dry and
between irrigations.
Population Reduction – Fumigants
Caution needs to be exercised with incendiary devices in dry conditions.
Population Reduction – Fumigants
Population Reduction –
“Rodenator” (shown to be “fun” but
effectiveness can be elusive).