🐿️ How to Control Richardson Ground Squirrels (Gophers) in Calgary

Learn How Gophers Damage Your Lawn and Garden — and How to Stop Them

Richardson ground squirrels, often called “gophers,” are common pests across Calgary and southern Alberta. These burrowing rodents may look harmless, but they can cause serious damage to lawns, gardens, and agricultural properties if left uncontrolled.

⚠️ Why Ground Squirrels Are a Problem

Richardson ground squirrels dig extensive burrow systems that weaken soil structure and damage turf, roots, and plants. Their mounds make mowing difficult and unsightly, while their feeding habits can destroy gardens, flowerbeds, and crops.

Key signs of ground squirrel activity include:

• Fresh piles of soil (mounds) near burrow entrances
  
  

• Holes 2–3 inches wide scattered across the yard or field
  
  

• Wilting plants and chewed stems near burrow openings
  
  

• Increased activity during warm, sunny days in spring and summer
  
  

If left untreated, gophers multiply quickly and can spread across entire properties, creating a long-term maintenance issue.

🌿 Prevention Tips: Keep Gophers Away Naturally

1. Maintain Your Lawn – Keep grass trimmed short and remove weeds that provide cover and food.
   
   

2. Fill Abandoned Burrows – Backfill old tunnels with soil and compact it to discourage re-entry.
   
   

3. Remove Food Sources – Avoid leaving bird seed, pet food, or grains on the ground.
   
   

4. Install Barriers – Use underground fencing or mesh around gardens, flowerbeds, and decks to block digging.
   
   

5. Encourage Natural Predators – Hawks, owls, and snakes can help reduce gopher populations naturally.
   
   

🪤 Control Methods for Richardson Ground Squirrels

If preventive steps aren’t enough, targeted control may be necessary:

• Live Traps or Kill Traps: Effective for small infestations, but must be checked regularly.
  
  

• Baiting: Approved rodent baits can be used outdoors — always follow label directions and keep children and pets away.
  
  

• Fumigation: Certain gas cartridges are designed for burrows but should only be handled by trained professionals.
  
  

• Professional Pest Control: The most reliable solution for severe or recurring infestations.
  
  

At Pest Pro Exterminator Calgary, our licensed technicians use safe, effective, and humane gopher control solutions to eliminate active colonies and prevent future damage. We inspect burrow systems, apply professional-grade treatments, and offer maintenance programs to keep your property protected all season long.

🏡 Protect Your Property from Ground Squirrel Damage

Don’t let gophers ruin your lawn or garden. With proper prevention and expert help, you can enjoy a healthy, pest-free yard.

📞 Contact Pest Pro Exterminator Calgary today for professional Richardson ground squirrel control and long-term prevention strategies that really work.