Earth dogs: photos of pests and their absurd nature
Ground dogs are dangerous pests that settle in areas and do a lot of harm. These animals are distinguished by amazing cunning and can easily bypass traps. There are several effective methods to control these pests.
Content
What does an earthen dog look like (photo)
Signs of the appearance of earthen dogs on the site
Rodents belong to the family of mice, but outwardly they look more like rats. They dig holes in the area, while throwing heaps of earth to the surface. Earthen dogs feed on seeds, berries, bark of young trees and bushes, root crops.
These pests are very voracious and thrifty, they will quickly destroy the stocks of other rodents and do not disdain human ones.
What does the animal look like
Earth dog.
The earth dog has a thick, smooth coat that is gray, brown or black in color with white or gray stripes on the back and dark brown spots all over the body. The weight of one individual reaches 500 grams, the body length is 25 cm, and the tail is 6-13 cm.
She has a rounded head with wide-set eyes and small ears. Strong paws with powerful claws, designed for burrowing. The animals were given the name dogs, for the sounds made, similar to the barking of puppies.
Reproduction
Animals do not hibernate and breed throughout the year. One female has from 2 to 15 babies, a month after birth they become independent, in two months they are ready for reproduction. The family consists of a male and 3-4 females with cubs.
Habitat
Family of earth dogs.
Earthen dogs dig holes at a depth of 15-20 cm, they equip passages, a pantry, a place for hibernation and a nest for brood underground for their family. They can use mole moves for their own purposes.
The dog makes reserves for the winter in a mink, which consist of root crops and seeds. In the summer, it lives closer to water bodies. And closer to winter, it moves closer to people, it can even settle in a shed or a greenhouse. An earth dog runs fast, swims, climbs trees, digs and jumps.
Shepherds in the steppes encountered these pests and put up a strong fight. Cattle in the pastures and horses often fell into holes and broke their legs.
Animals live in burrows and tunnels. They have a clear hierarchy and structure. The dwelling consists of several separate rooms:
- pantries;
- nests;
- shelters;
- toilets.
Each dog has clearly defined responsibilities and roles. They are smart and hardworking.
Methods of struggle
To combat earthen dogs, traps and poisonous baits are used, and ultrasonic repellers are also popular.
Under normal conditions, no, but in case of protection of the family or a threat to life, they can attack.
They do not like company and are cunning enough to live in a house with people like mice or rats.
Only spoilage of stocks. In a hungry winter, they are in sheds and cellars, they can spoil or divide vegetables and cereals.
Mechanical means
Traps can be made by yourself or purchased in stores. They are installed at the edges of the moves and are regularly checked. They are easy to use and practical.
How to properly use poisons and baits
Poisonous baits are laid out in places where animals appear or in their holes. They are used simply and effectively, but there are a number of nuances:
- corpses must be quickly removed;
- food with poison on the site can be eaten by other animals;
- baits from the dog's site can be brought into the tunnels, due to which the poison can get into the ground;
- rats are cunning and when the first corpses appear, they will stop eating poisoned food;
- the body of the animal quickly gets used and after several generations the animals stop perceiving and reacting to poisons.
Earth rat repellers
A device is installed on the site, with the desired radius of optimal exposure. It can be powered by a rechargeable battery or batteries that need to be changed or recharged to keep the device running continuously. Repellers are of two types:
- ultrasonic, which are ineffective, because animals live deep underground;
- vibratory, which propagate sound vibrations in the ground.
This method has advantages and disadvantages that must be taken into account when choosing.
Pros:
- acts simply;
- safe and humane;
- economically;
- expel other pests.
Cons:
- animals can move to neighbors, causing problems;
- useful insects will also run away;
- in the event of a breakdown or temporary shutdown, the rats will gladly return.
Animals
There are a number of game animals that can catch ground dogs. Even there is not to catch, then at least drive them, violating the usual way of life of animals. This:
- cats;
- dogs;
- ferrets;
- caresses.
Conclusion
Earth dogs are rodents that harm crops and trees and shrubs growing on the site. They are very prolific and voracious. It is important to deal with them in time to prevent their reproduction. Control methods are available and effective, although they will require effort and patience.
