* Diet: Gophers are herbivores, but their diet primarily consists of underground roots, stems, and tubers, especially those from grasses and other herbaceous plants. They prefer soft, succulent roots.
* Birch tree roots: Birch tree roots are typically woody and fibrous, making them difficult to chew and digest for gophers.
* Other preferences: Gophers are more likely to target young, tender roots near the surface, as these are easier to access and consume.
While it's possible a gopher might nibble on a birch tree root occasionally, they wouldn't make it a significant part of their diet. If you're experiencing damage to your birch tree roots, other factors like insects, disease, or environmental conditions are more likely to be the culprit.