Differences Between Groundhogs and Gophers

Both gophers and groundhogs can be found throughout Canada. Pocket gophers grow to about 15cm in length and are typically smaller than groundhogs, which can be as long as 63cm.

Other gopher vs. groundhog differences include:

  • Gopher teeth protrude from the mouth and are usually yellow or brown.
  • Groundhog teeth are normally white in colour and not visible unless the mouth is open.
  • Groundhog tails are short and covered in thick, bushy fur.
  • Pocket gopher tails, like other rodents, are completely hairless.

One of the more interesting features of pocket gophers are their cheeks. As their name implies, their fur-lined cheeks are used as pockets to hold both food and nesting materials.

Though some Canadians call Richardson’s ground squirrels gophers, this is actually a misnomer. They are actually closer in relation to groundhogs vs. gophers.

Groundhog vs. Gopher Damage

Known for their burrowing behaviour, both pests can be detrimental to yards, gardens, and pastures. Groundhog and gopher holes can each cause significant damage to equipment and harm livestock.

Groundhog burrows can have two or more entrances and a main hole around 20cm in diameter. Gopher holes are easy to spot due to the sheer amount of dirt piled around them, which sometimes smothers surrounding plants. Their holes may be large as 50cm in diameter.

When it comes to groundhogs vs. gophers, they are both pests and are problematic when they invade property. Contacting the professionals at Orkin Canada is the best way to get a handle on the situation.