No, mothballs will not get rid of gophers. They are ineffective underground and can create serious risks for pets, children, and the environment.
Finding gophers tearing up your lawn or garden can be frustrating, especially when their tunnels start damaging plants and landscaping. In search of quick fixes, many homeowners turn to household items like mothballs, hoping the strong odor will drive the pests away.
It sounds like a simple solution, but does it actually work? Before sprinkling mothballs into burrows, it’s important to understand how they function, the risks involved, and whether they can truly solve a gopher problem.
What Mothballs Are and How They Work
Mothballs are small chemical pesticide balls made with either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. They were designed to protect clothing and fabrics from moths and other insects by slowly releasing a strong vapor in enclosed spaces. Over time, these fumes build up to levels that are toxic to small pests, keeping them away from stored clothing or linens.
Because of their strong odor, some homeowners believe mothballs can work as a general repellent for wildlife, including gophers. The idea is that the smell will drive the animals out of their burrows and keep them from coming back. However, this assumption doesn’t take into account how gophers live underground or how mothballs are actually meant to be used.
Do Mothballs Work Against Gophers?
Despite the strong smell, mothballs are not effective for controlling gophers. These animals spend most of their time in underground tunnels where airflow quickly dilutes the odor. Even if mothballs are placed directly into burrows, the scent usually isn’t concentrated enough to force the gophers out.
Studies and wildlife experts agree there is no scientific evidence that mothballs repel or kill gophers. In many cases, gophers simply adapt to the smell or dig new tunnels around treated areas. This means homeowners waste time and effort without addressing the root of the problem, leaving plants and lawns at risk for continued damage.
Risks and Dangers of Using Mothballs Outdoors
Using mothballs outside poses more harm than help. The chemicals in mothballs are toxic and can be dangerous if ingested by pets or children who might mistake them for candy or toys. Birds, beneficial insects, and other wildlife are also at risk when exposed to the fumes or residues.
Environmental damage is another concern. When mothballs are placed in soil, their chemicals can seep into the ground and potentially contaminate water sources. In fact, the EPA restricts the use of mothballs strictly to indoor pest control, making their outdoor use not only ineffective but also unsafe and, in some cases, illegal.
Better Alternatives for Gopher Control
Instead of relying on mothballs, homeowners have more effective and safe methods to deal with gophers. Trapping is one of the most reliable solutions, with both live traps and kill traps available depending on preference and local regulations. Exclusion techniques, such as installing underground fencing or mesh barriers around gardens, can also prevent gophers from tunneling into sensitive areas.
Another long-term option is to bring in professional wildlife removal services. Experts can identify active tunnels, set traps strategically, and implement deterrents that actually work. Unlike DIY fixes, these approaches focus on solving the root problem, ensuring your lawn, plants, and landscaping are protected from ongoing gopher damage.
When to Call a Professional
If gopher damage is recurring or spreading across your yard, it’s often a sign that DIY methods aren’t enough. Gophers reproduce quickly and can create extensive tunnel networks, making it difficult for homeowners to stay ahead of the problem. At this stage, bringing in a professional ensures the situation is handled safely and effectively.
Wildlife removal specialists not only eliminate the existing gophers but also put measures in place to reduce future infestations. They use targeted strategies that are far more reliable than home remedies like mothballs. By relying on expert help, you can protect your property while avoiding the risks tied to toxic or ineffective DIY solutions.
Conclusion
Mothballs may seem like a quick fix for gopher problems, but they simply don’t work. Gophers live underground where the odor quickly disperses, and there’s no scientific proof that the chemicals deter them. On top of that, mothballs pose serious health and environmental risks when used outdoors.
The most effective way to handle gophers is through proven methods like trapping, exclusion barriers, or professional wildlife removal. By choosing safe and targeted solutions, you protect your yard without endangering your family, pets, or the environment. When gopher activity persists, it’s always best to turn to experts who can address the problem at its source.
Call AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas Today
If gophers are tearing up your yard or garden, don’t wait for the damage to spread. AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas offers safe, humane, and effective gopher removal services customized for your property. Our licensed and insured team will inspect, remove, and help prevent future gopher infestations so you can enjoy a healthy, beautiful lawn again.
