Managing Iowa Wildlife Pocket Gophers by Iowa State

This paper describes the plains pocket gopher, describing its physical appearance and distinctive features like fur-lined cheek pouches. It emphasizes that it's different from other animals often called "gophers." The section on behavior and reproduction highlights their solitary lifestyle, mating habits, and food preferences. It also explains their year-round activity and how they reach sexual maturity. The part about food habits details their herbivorous diet and the variety of plants they consume. In habitat, it discusses where they live and how soil types influence their distribution. The section on tunneling explains how they create underground systems and surface mounds. It also notes their impact on soil and vegetation. Lastly, it covers management methods, such as trapping and the use of toxicants, considering both the benefits and drawbacks.

Download this paper by Iowa State University to learn more.

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