What can I do to protect my sprinkler system (pipe and manifold) from a destructive animal gnawing on it? - Ask Extension
Something has been chewing on my sprinkler system at my Longmont home: a horizontal "slice" has appeared on a buried (under cedar mulch) plastic irri...
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What can I do to protect my sprinkler system (pipe and manifold) from a destructive animal gnawing on it? #873714
Asked June 18, 2024, 8:33 PM EDT
Something has been chewing on my sprinkler system at my Longmont home: a horizontal "slice" has appeared on a buried (under cedar mulch) plastic irrigation hose watering a linden tree as well as "teeth" marks from something gnawing on our manifold cover. First instance was captured on 6/05/24, the second was today, 6/18/24. What animal is this, why is the animal doing this (looking for water?) and what can I do to protect my sprinkler system? We live in a residential neighborhood and we have seen only birds, squirrels and rabbits.
Boulder County Colorado
Expert Response
Hello Andrea,
Thank you for the photos.
You mentioned birds, squirrels and rabbits. Do you also have rate, voles, raccoons, skunks and chipmunks?
There are a variety of animals which might be the culprit. Even coyotes might be the cause.
Typically they are looking for water.
Thicker pipe might be helpful, but not necessary a long time solution
Best
CSU Extension Master Gardener Desk
Thank you for the photos.
You mentioned birds, squirrels and rabbits. Do you also have rate, voles, raccoons, skunks and chipmunks?
There are a variety of animals which might be the culprit. Even coyotes might be the cause.
Typically they are looking for water.
Thicker pipe might be helpful, but not necessary a long time solution
Best
CSU Extension Master Gardener Desk
