Mole and Gopher Control in Portland: A Local Guide
Moles and gophers both tear up Portland yards, but they behave differently, and the fix depends on which one you have.
Soft, moist Pacific Northwest soil is ideal for both animals. Moles hunt worms and grubs and push up volcano-shaped hills. Gophers eat roots and leave crescent mounds with a plugged hole beside them.
Getting the diagnosis right matters because the traps and placement differ, and a trap set for the wrong animal catches nothing.
Tell them apart
Look at the mound. A round, centered plug suggests a mole. A fan or crescent shape with the plug off to the side suggests a gopher. Moles also raise ridges across lawns, while gophers do their damage below ground to plants and irrigation lines.
Best practices
Trapping in active runs is the most reliable method for both. Repellents, castor oil, ultrasonic devices and gas cartridges give mixed results at best. Barrier mesh protects beds and young trees from gophers.
Timing
Activity peaks in spring and fall, when soil is damp. Start at the first fresh mound, since fewer animals are easier to resolve than an established population.
What to watch for
Moles
Lawn ridges and round hills. See the moles page.
Gophers
Crescent mounds and root damage. See the gophers page.
Neighboring yards
Neighbors can reintroduce animals, so monitor after treatment.
What happens on a visit
- Inspect mounds and tunnels
- Identify the animal
- Set traps in active runs
- Check, reset and recommend barriers
Read next: Moles, Gophers, Other Insects.
Moles & Gophers (Portland Guide) questions
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