Gophers live in large colonies and stay underground most of the time. They emerge from their burrows to forage for food among the trees and shrubs at night. Also, they may come out of their predicament if they hear a noise, feel threatened, or need to eat and drink. Gophers don't hibernate. However, they spend the cold weather burrowed deep below for extended periods. These rodents are solitary animals, meaning they only come together during breeding season or when it is time to hibernate for winter.