Not sure if you’re dealing with a gopher or a woodchuck in your yard? You’re not alone. These burrowing pests may seem similar, but they’re different animals with unique behaviors—and they cause different kinds of damage. In this guide, we’ll compare gophers vs woodchucks so you can identify the problem and choose the right solution.
Are Gophers and Woodchucks the Same Animal?
No, gophers and woodchucks are not the same. Gophers are small rodents that live mostly underground and dig complex tunnel systems. Woodchucks, also known as groundhogs, are larger land-dwelling rodents that dig deep burrows and often come above ground to feed during the day.
While both are burrowers, they differ in size, appearance, habits, and the type of damage they cause.
Gopher vs Woodchuck: Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Gopher | Woodchuck (Groundhog) |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 4–14 inches, 0.5–2 lbs | 16–26 inches, 5–14 lbs |
| Tail | Hairless, short tail | Short, bushy tail |
| Habitat | Mostly underground tunnels | Burrows near open fields, under decks, or sheds |
| Visible Activity | Rarely seen above ground | Often seen feeding during daylight |
| Signs of Damage | Multiple small mounds of loose dirt | Large holes, dirt piles, garden damage |
| Diet | Roots, tubers, and underground vegetation | Leaves, grasses, vegetables, fruits |
How to Tell If You Have Gophers
If you see small crescent-shaped mounds of soil without visible holes, it’s likely gophers. These animals stay underground most of the time and feed on roots and plants below the surface.
Look for these signs:
- Fan- or horseshoe-shaped mounds of loose dirt
- No visible hole in the middle (gophers plug their tunnels)
- Plants in your lawn or garden dying from below
Gophers are common in the western and southern U.S. and can damage irrigation systems, lawns, and gardens.
How to Tell If You Have a Woodchuck
Large holes with a visible entrance and surrounding dirt piles usually mean you have a woodchuck. They also leave behind chewed garden crops and often appear during the day.
Signs of a woodchuck:
- Large burrow entrances (10–12 inches wide)
- Visible dirt mound next to the hole
- Chewed vegetables, leaves, and flowers
- Animal sightings during early morning or late afternoon
Unlike gophers, woodchucks are easier to spot and leave more obvious destruction above ground.
Which Animal Causes More Damage?
It depends on the type of damage you’re dealing with. Gophers ruin lawns and root systems from below, while woodchucks cause surface damage and structural problems near buildings.
Gopher Damage
- Kills lawns and garden plants by eating roots
- Creates unsightly mounds throughout your yard
- Can damage irrigation systems and underground cables
Woodchuck Damage
- Digs large holes that can weaken foundations and sidewalks
- Eats garden crops, fruit, and ornamental plants
- Undermines sheds, decks, and porches
Want to find out how much it might cost to remove either pest? Use this pest control cost calculator for a quick estimate tailored to your needs.
How to Get Rid of Gophers
Gopher control usually involves traps, repellents, or underground deterrents. They are tricky because they rarely leave their tunnels.
Effective gopher control methods:
- Underground gopher traps placed in active tunnels
- Castor oil-based repellents spread across the lawn
- Sonic spikes to disrupt their underground habitat
- Carbon monoxide gas or fumigation (used by professionals)
If your gopher problem is extensive, hiring pest control may be more effective long-term. Check your gopher control cost here.
How to Get Rid of a Woodchuck
Woodchucks can be removed using live traps, fencing, and deterrents. Because they’re above-ground foragers, they’re easier to catch and deter than gophers.
Steps to remove woodchucks:
- Set up a raccoon-sized live trap with cantaloupe or corn
- Install wire fencing buried 12 inches deep to block burrowing
- Use ammonia, garlic spray, or commercial repellents near burrows
- Seal empty burrows with gravel and heavy rocks once the animal is gone
If you’re not sure how to start or need help, calculate your woodchuck removal cost here.
Can Gophers and Woodchucks Live in the Same Area?
Yes, but it’s rare because they prefer different habitats and food sources. Gophers stay mostly underground and eat roots, while woodchucks come above ground and prefer leafy greens and fruits.
Still, on large or rural properties, it’s possible to have both at the same time, especially near gardens or fields with mixed vegetation.
Which Is Easier to Catch?
Woodchucks are easier to catch because they leave the burrow during the day. Gophers are more elusive and live underground almost full time, making traps and deterrents harder to manage without professional tools.
If you’re struggling with either pest and want a clear estimate on removal, get a free quote here and plan your next move with confidence.
Conclusion: Know the Pest, Solve the Problem
Gophers and woodchucks may both dig holes, but the type of hole, damage, and activity patterns are completely different. Identifying which one you’re dealing with is the first step to solving the problem effectively and protecting your property.
Need help deciding what it’ll take to remove one—or both—of these burrowers? Try this simple pest control calculator and get a cost estimate in seconds.
Don’t let burrowing pests destroy your yard. Take action now with the right strategy for your situation.
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