Does Chewing Gum Kill Gophers?

Does Chewing Gum Kill Gophers?

Chewing gum does not reliably kill gophers, despite its popularity as a home remedy. The theory is that a gopher will ingest gum, which then blocks its digestive system, but there is no scientific evidence that this method works or that it is humane. Gophers are persistent burrowers, and relying on gum typically wastes time while the animal continues to damage lawns and gardens.

The Origin of the Chewing Gum Myth

The idea likely stems from the observation that gophers sometimes pull food into their tunnels. People assume a gopher will find and eat a stick of gum left at the tunnel entrance. In reality, a gopher's primary diet is roots, tubers, and earthworms. The strong mint flavor might temporarily deter the animal rather than attract it, making the remedy counterproductive.

Why Home Remedies Fail

Many homeowners try DIY solutions like chewing gum, chocolate laxatives, or bleach before calling a professional. These methods share common flaws: they are non-specific, they fail to address the entire burrow system, and they can poison soil or harm non-target wildlife. A gopher tunnel network is extensive, and a single poison or deterrent rarely reaches the animal deep underground.

Proven Methods for Gopher Control

Effective gopher management requires a multi-step approach that targets the animal directly and repairs the habitat. The most reliable methods include:

• Trapping: Using a box trap or cinch trap placed in the main tunnel, which is the most effective and immediate solution.
• Gopher Bait: Strychnine or zinc phosphide bait, applied strictly according to label directions by a licensed pest control operator.
• Underground Fencing: Installing wire mesh barriers at least 18 to 24 inches deep to protect specific garden beds.

When to Call a Professional

If a homeowner has multiple gopher mounds or repeated infestations, professional intervention is the best course of action. A pest control expert can locate active tunnels, apply EPA-registered treatments safely, and advise on long-term exclusion. Attempting to handle a gopher problem alone often leads to frustration and further landscape damage.