About Thomomys talpoides (Richardson, 1828)
Northern pocket gophers, scientifically known as Thomomys talpoides (Richardson, 1828), have long fur that ranges from rich brown to yellowish brown. Their underparts are paler, and they have a distinct black patch behind each ear. These gophers weigh between 60 and 160 grams, which equals 2.1 to 5.6 ounces. Their typical habitat is areas of good-quality soil, located in meadows or alongside streams. They are most commonly found in mountain regions, though they also live in lowlands. Northern pocket gophers rarely come above ground. When they do emerge, they almost never go further than 2.5 feet, or 0.76 meters, from the entrance of their burrow. Underground, their tunnel systems often extend for hundreds of feet; they use these tunnels for living, storing food, and raising their young.
