Gopher Exterminator Or Mole Exterminator?

Although northern pocket gophers are commonly called moles, true insect-eating moles are not present in Alberta. Pocket gophers are herbivores and do not consume meat or insects. In addition to this, Richardson’s ground squirrels are often referred to as gophers. Therefore, you may want to make sure if what you are looking for is a pocket gopher exterminator or a ground squirrel control specialist.

Why Ground Squirrels are Frequently Called Gophers?

At the beginning of the 19th century, John Richardson became the first European naturalist to collect specimens of what would later be named after him, Richardson’s ground squirrels. He sent the specimens to Britain for detailed scientific analysis and classification.

When settlers from forested regions of eastern Canada and Europe arrived on the prairies, who were unfamiliar with the species borrowed the term “gopher” to refer to these squirrels which now serves as the common name for them on the Canadian prairies.

In Alberta, Richardson’s ground squirrels are commonly found in grasslands and agricultural areas. They are active during the day and spend much of their time above ground, foraging for food and socializing with other members of their colony.

Physical Attributes of Richardson’s Ground Squirrels

Size: Adults typically grow up to 8-13 inches (20-33 cm) in length, including their tail.

Fur: They have fur that is generally grayish-brown on the back and sides, with a lighter underbelly. They have a bushy tail that is often held erect and has a distinctive white tip.

Head: Their head is round and their eyes are large and dark. They have short, rounded ears.

Body: They have a sturdy body with short, powerful legs and strong claws for digging.

Pocket Gopher’s Characteristics

The northern pocket gopher, which is Alberta’s sole species of pocket gopher, exhibits size variations ranging from 15-25 centimeters (6-10 inches) in length and weighs between 94 to 104 grams (about 3.5 ounces). The northern pocket gopher is a burrowing rodent that lives underground almost all the time, and is greyish-brown in color. These gophers are characterized by their short legs and stout bodies. They get their name from their fur-lined, external cheek pouches they use for carrying food to their nest.

Typical Signs of Pocket Gopher Infestation

1. Mounds of soil: Northern pocket gophers are known for their extensive burrow systems and create characteristic mounds of soil as they push dirt out of their tunnels. Northern pocket gophers also push soil away from the entrance of their burrows, forming mounds that can have a fan-shaped or horseshoe-shaped appearance. Once the mound is constructed, the gopher typically seals the burrow entrance by packing it with several centimeters of soil, which can make the entrance less noticeable.
2. Tunnels and runways: Gophers create a network of tunnels, often close to the surface. These tunnels can be identified by depressions in the ground. You may also notice raised ridges or raised pathways running through vegetation, which can be signs of gopher runways.
3. Vegetation damage: Gophers feed on plant roots, stems, and foliage, which can cause damage to lawns, gardens, and crops. If you notice chewed or clipped vegetation, missing plants, or wilted plants without an apparent cause, it could be a sign of gopher feeding activity.

Safe and Responsible Pocket Gopher Exterminator Services

It’s crucial to ensure that gopher control is conducted safely and responsibly, keeping in mind that certain methods may be prohibited or restricted by local laws or regulations. Consulting with a professional pocket gopher exterminator is recommended to determine the best course of action for addressing your gopher issue according to your location’s guidelines.