What's the Difference Between Gophers and Groundhogs?

As both are small, brown, burrowing rodents, the gopher and groundhog are easily confused for each other. In fact, because these pests live in overlapping regions of the U.S., it is possible that homeowners will struggle with identifying one or both. Despite their similarities, gophers and groundhogs belong to two different classes of rodents. Gophers are much smaller than groundhogs, weighing about 2 and 12 pounds, respectively. Homeowners are most likely to actually observe groundhogs, as gophers spend very little time aboveground.

Problems with Gophers vs. Groundhogs

While the pests' food sources are similar, gophers feed on mostly roots and tubers. Even one can quickly mow down an entire garden row, leaving vegetation on the surface intact while destroying plants from below. Since groundhogs spend more time on the surface, they are more likely the cause of damage to leaves, bark, or fruits. Still, both pests create problems when they burrow. This behavior is particularly damaging in agricultural fields, but can also ruin lawn care machinery, create tripping hazards, and leave unattractive holes, dirt piles, and ridges in yards.

Removing Burrowing Pests

To prevent groundhogs or gophers from getting in the yard, many people use special fencing that extends about 12 inches below ground in an L shape. Because installation is work-intensive, this method is most practical in small areas like gardens. For a more straightforward approach, certain methods may be implemented directly into burrows to address the problem at the source. No matter which pest is wrecking the yard, the proper response is the same for a gopher or groundhog infestation. Contact Critter Control for efficient and hassle-free removal.

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Best Bat Removal

Anett B.
5/8/2023
Brandon was out to please and make out lives easier with out bat situation. Above and beyond of the call of duty and got the job done. Thank you!
Celia G
3/9/2023
Bat removal. Very knowledgeable and dedicated.
Emily G.
9/1/2022
BAT POOP CLEAN-UP AND PREVENTION! Bat guano removed from gables. No bats found in attic, so put new screens on all gable vents, as one screen was close to breaking and then bats may have gotten in! Great work in Tulsa!
Jerry M.
10/14/2021
Squirrels and chipmunks were in our attic. So we called Critter Control to do an inspection. Their representative climbed all over our very steep roof and found several places where squirrels had entered our attic.

Upon inspection of the attic, evidence of bats was also found. The Critter Control team came on time to completely caulk the entire perimeter of the house and create an exit strategy for the squirrels and bats.

Because bat droppings can cause histoplasmosis, this also required total removal and replacement of our attic insulation and sanitizing the space. Not a small job in a 1,300 sq. ft. attic! While Critter Control’s cost was high, our homeowners insurance covered most of it. Everyone representing Critter Control was professional, courteous and timely. I would highly recommend them to anyone who thinks they might have unwelcome guests living in their attic
Vincent S.
10/30/2020
On recommendations from a nearby pest control company, I called Critter Control for suspicious bat droppings.

Madison came out the same day to do an inspection. She was knowledgeable, thorough, and highly professional. She examined the ‘matter’ that had been scattered on my threshold and thought it was foliage. But she then asked to go up to my attic space where the bats could be roosting. She had to walk up 3 flights of stairs with a heavy ladder. She again spent some time searching all the nooks and crannies and found nothing.

She seemed so interested in her craft, it was truly inspiring to see! She reassured me and is writing up a prevention strategy for my appraisal. She charged me NOTHING!! I am so impressed. We need more Madisons in this world!

Service: Bat Removal
Sonia-Maria R.
9/3/2020
We noticed droppings on our brand new deck - we were given their number from our contractor. They came the next day. Brian looked at it and said - yeah, bats!! He then checked every area in our attic and he explained exactly what needed to be done.

He found evidence of a mice infestation, provided a referral and they are helping us as well. Great service, very informative, very professional! We are very satisfied and would recommend them to anyone who has any issues with any critters!

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