Arizona Pest Library

Detailed professional information on common pests found in Arizona.

Pest Information
PEST NAME

Gopher

PRIMARY SEASON
Spring, Fall
COMMON LOCATIONS
  • Lawns and turfgrass
  • Under garden beds
  • Near tree roots and shrubs
  • Irrigation zones and drip lines
  • Along sidewalks or patios
  • Around utility lines and foundations

Signs of Gopher Activity

Gophers are burrowing rodents that cause extensive underground damage before you see them. The most obvious sign is the appearance of fresh, fan-shaped dirt mounds on your lawn or garden beds—unlike molehills, gopher mounds are usually off-center and plugged.

They feed on plant roots and can quickly destroy landscaping, gardens, and irrigation systems. One gopher can tunnel up to 200 yards and may displace hundreds of pounds of soil. If left unchecked, they’ll attract other pests and weaken the structural integrity of nearby ground.

Our Gopher Removal Method

Gopher control starts with confirming active tunnels. We inspect for fresh mounds and soft soil and then use a combination of baiting, trapping, and—in some cases—pressurized carbon monoxide to humanely and effectively eliminate them.

Because gophers are solitary and territorial, targeting the active individual often solves the problem—but surrounding properties may need follow-up treatment if new activity appears.

Preventing Gopher Damage Long-Term

To discourage gophers, reduce watering and avoid over-irrigating lawns or gardens—they’re attracted to loose, moist soil. Installing underground wire mesh or gopher baskets around high-value trees and plants can also help.

Routine monitoring is essential because new gophers may move in once one is removed. Early intervention is key to avoiding costly landscape repair if you notice new mounds or plant damage.

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