Gophers are rodents that can be found in the Davis area. The local species of gopher is calledBotta's pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae). It is the only gopher species found in Yolo County, and it is found in all parts of Yolo County. It is a native species.
(Gophers should not be confused with ground squirrels, which also dig holes in the ground and therefore are sometimes called gophers. The squirrels that most commonly dig in yards in Davis are non-native.)
Pocket gophers like to burrow and are consummate hoarders. They use their cheek pouches for transporting food back to their burrows. These pouches are fur-lined and can be turned inside out. They extend from the side of the mouth well back onto the shoulders.
Pocket gophers like moist soil, and their presence is marked by the appearance of freshly dug mounds dirt in your garden or lawn. They also enjoy vegetables, and some gopher species are considered agricultural pests. There are methods for ridding your organic garden of gophers at Gopher Manifesto.
