Evaluating the difficulty of setting pocket gopher traps: a subjective and objective assessment of 5 trap designs evaluated with subjective and objective methods

Abstract Trapping is an important method for controlling pocket gophers. However, the difficulty of setting certain pocket gopher traps presents a barrier to their use. This study evaluates 5 common pocket gopher traps with differing operational mechanisms to determine which design(s) are easiest for applicators to set, using both objective and subjective criteria. The findings aim to assist individuals in selecting traps that match their trap-setting capabilities. Additionally, we describe a tool designed to assist individuals in setting more challenging traps in the field.