Is a Gopher a Groundhog? Key Differences Explained
It’s easy to confuse gophers and groundhogs—they’re both small, furry animals known for digging tunnels and causing yard damage. But are they the same animal? The short answer is: No, a gopher is not a groundhog. They are two different species with distinct traits, behaviors, and habitats. Let’s explore what sets them apart.
Gopher vs Groundhog: Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Gopher | Groundhog |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Family: Geomyidae | Marmota monax |
| Common Names | Pocket gopher | Woodchuck, groundhog |
| Size | 5–12 inches long | 16–27 inches long |
| Weight | Up to 1–2 pounds | 5–12 pounds |
| Appearance | Small, slender, with large cheek pouches | Larger, stockier, with bushy tail |
| Habitat | Dry, sandy soil in western/central U.S. | Fields, yards, and forests in eastern U.S. and Canada |
| Activity | Mostly underground | Spends time both above and below ground |
| Diet | Roots, tubers, grasses | Vegetables, fruits, flowers, bark |
Key Differences Between Gophers and Groundhogs
1. Size and Appearance
Groundhogs are much larger than gophers. A groundhog can weigh over 10 pounds, while most gophers weigh just 1–2 pounds. Groundhogs have bushy tails and visible ears. Gophers have tiny eyes, no visible ears, and large cheek pouches they use to carry food.
2. Tunneling Habits
Gophers are nearly 100% underground. They dig elaborate tunnel systems and rarely come to the surface. You’ll know you have gophers if you see small crescent-shaped dirt mounds.
Groundhogs build large, deep burrows with wide entrances—often 10–12 inches across. They frequently come above ground to feed and explore.
3. Behavior
Groundhogs are diurnal (active during the day) and are often seen sunbathing or eating plants. Gophers are much more secretive and spend nearly all their time underground.
4. Geographic Range
Gophers are mostly found in the western and central U.S., while groundhogs live in the eastern and northeastern U.S. and parts of Canada.
Are Gophers or Groundhogs More Destructive?
Both animals can cause damage, but in different ways:
- Gophers: Destroy lawns from below by eating roots and creating tunnels that collapse
- Groundhogs: Dig large burrows near foundations, eat garden plants, and damage sheds or decks
If you’re seeing plants disappear from underground with no animal in sight, it’s likely a gopher. If you’re seeing large holes and chewed vegetables, it’s probably a groundhog.
Can Gophers and Groundhogs Live in the Same Area?
Not usually. They prefer different environments and don’t share burrow systems. Gophers stick to drier, looser soil while groundhogs prefer more wooded or suburban areas with easier access to surface vegetation.
How to Get Rid of Gophers or Groundhogs
Identifying the right animal is the first step to effective removal. Groundhog methods won’t work on gophers, and vice versa.
- For gophers: Use underground traps, repellents, or barriers like mesh baskets for plants
- For groundhogs: Try fencing, live traps, or repellents near burrow entrances
Not sure which pest you’re dealing with? Use this free pest control calculator to estimate removal costs and explore professional options based on your situation.
FAQs About Gophers vs Groundhogs
Are gophers and groundhogs related?
They’re both rodents, but they come from different families. Gophers belong to the Geomyidae family, while groundhogs belong to the Sciuridae (squirrel) family.
Can gophers and groundhogs be trapped the same way?
No. Gophers require smaller, underground traps, while groundhogs need larger live traps placed near burrow entrances above ground.
Which one is more likely to damage a garden?
Groundhogs are more aggressive eaters of above-ground plants and vegetables. Gophers do more root-level damage but are less likely to eat visible crops.
Conclusion
No, a gopher is not a groundhog. These two animals may look similar at first glance, but they differ in size, habits, diet, and behavior. Understanding the difference is crucial when protecting your yard or planning pest control.
If you’re unsure what’s tearing up your property, use this pest control cost calculator to get fast insights and pricing for safe, targeted removal.
The right ID means the right solution—don’t guess when it comes to pests.
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