Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Repellent Trials To Reduce Reforestation Damage By Pocket Gophers, Deer, And Elk, Gary W. Witmer, Rodney D. Sayler, Michael J. Pipas

National Wildlife Research Center Repellents Conference 1995

We tested selected, potential repellents in pen and field trials to determine their ability to reduce consumption of palatable foods by pocket gophers (Thomomys talpoides), deer (Odocoileus spp.), and elk (Cervus elaphus). Only sulfur-based compounds (predator urines and Deer Away®) deterred feeding by captive gophers. Chemically hot, bitter, and noxious compounds and plants did not deter gopher feeding. Rapid reinvasion of available habitat by pocket gophers in a field trial occurred despite the presence of encapsulated, sulfur-based semiochemicals of stoat (Mustela erminea) on trial plots. Coyote urine and Deer Away deterred browsing by …