How to Set Pocket Gopher Trap: A Comprehensive Guide
Gophers, also known as pocket gophers, are small burrowing rodents that can cause significant damage to gardens, lawns, and agricultural fields. Their extensive tunnel systems can destroy roots, plants, and even underground utilities. To effectively control gopher populations, setting a pocket gopher trap is a practical solution. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to set a pocket gopher trap to help you manage these pesky critters effectively.
Step 1: Choose the Right Trap
The first step in setting a pocket gopher trap is to select the appropriate trap. There are several types of gopher traps available, including the box trap, the bait box trap, and the cone trap. The box trap is the most common and effective type for capturing pocket gophers. It consists of a long, narrow box with a trigger mechanism that closes when the gopher pushes against it.
Step 2: Locate the Burrow
To set the trap, you need to locate the gopher’s burrow. Look for signs of gopher activity, such as mounds of soil, fresh holes, or visible burrow entrances. Once you’ve found a burrow, dig down to the bottom of the tunnel to ensure you’re in the right place.
Step 3: Set the Trap
Place the trap at the bottom of the burrow with the trigger mechanism facing the entrance. Make sure the trap is secure and won’t be easily moved by other animals. You can use a stake or a piece of wire to hold the trap in place.
Step 4: Bait the Trap
The key to successfully trapping a gopher is to use the right bait. Common baits include peanut butter, sunflower seeds, or a piece of raw potato. Place the bait at the end of the trap, close to the trigger mechanism. Ensure the bait is accessible to the gopher without being visible from the outside.
Step 5: Check the Trap Regularly
Gophers are nocturnal creatures, so it’s best to check the trap in the early morning or late evening. If you catch a gopher, remove it from the trap and dispose of it properly. If the trap is empty, reset it with fresh bait and check it again the next day.
Step 6: Repeat as Necessary
Gophers can be persistent, and it’s not uncommon to need to set multiple traps to eliminate a single gopher. If you find that the gophers are returning to your property, consider setting additional traps or using other control methods, such as gopher poison or a gopher barrier.
In conclusion, setting a pocket gopher trap is an effective way to control gopher populations and protect your garden or property. By following these steps, you can successfully trap and remove these pesky rodents from your landscape. Remember to be patient and persistent, as gophers can be challenging to eliminate entirely.
