Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, can be a charming sight in your yard, but they can quickly become a nuisance when they start digging burrows and feasting on your garden. These members of the squirrel family are powerful diggers and can cause significant damage to your property. If you’re finding groundhog holes or noticing your vegetables disappearing, it’s time to take action. This guide will provide you with effective and humane methods to get rid of groundhogs and prevent them from returning.
Understanding Groundhog Behavior
Before you start trying to evict these furry creatures, understanding their behavior is key to successful removal. Groundhogs are most active during the day, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. They are herbivores with a particular fondness for garden plants, fruits, and vegetables.
Groundhogs are solitary animals, except during mating season. Breeding typically occurs in early spring, and by late summer, young groundhogs are venturing out of their dens. These youngsters, while seemingly cute, are just as capable of causing damage as their parents. Groundhog burrows are easily identifiable by their large entrance holes, typically 10-12 inches in diameter, often with a mound of excavated soil nearby. These burrows aren’t just temporary shelters; groundhogs use them for multiple seasons and even hibernate in them during the winter. A single burrow system can have multiple escape tunnels, making it a complex underground network.
Identifying Groundhog Problems
Knowing you have a groundhog problem is the first step. Here are common signs:
- Visible Burrows: Large holes in your yard, often near foundations, decks, or gardens.
- Garden Damage: Missing vegetables, fruits, or flowers, with clean, angled cuts on plant stems.
- Gnawing: Groundhogs may gnaw on wood structures, sheds, or decks.
- Sightings: Actually seeing a groundhog in your yard or garden.
Humane Methods to Deter Groundhogs
For many, humane removal is the preferred approach. Here are several methods to deter groundhogs without harming them:
1. Fencing
One of the most effective ways to protect your garden is by installing a fence. A small fence around your vegetable garden or vulnerable areas can be a significant deterrent. The fence should be at least 3 feet high, and ideally, extend 12 inches underground to prevent digging underneath. Chicken wire or hardware cloth works well.
2. Noise Deterrents
Groundhogs are easily startled by loud noises. You can use this to your advantage by:
- Playing a radio: Place a radio near the burrow entrance and tune it to a talk radio station. The human voices can be unsettling for groundhogs.
- Ultrasonic devices: Motion-activated ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to groundhogs (and other animals) but generally inaudible to humans.
- Barking Dogs: If you have a dog, letting it bark near the burrow entrance (from a safe distance and under supervision) can scare groundhogs away. However, constant barking can be disruptive, so use this method judiciously.
3. Smell Repellents
Groundhogs have a strong sense of smell, and certain odors can be offensive to them. You can try using these scent-based deterrents:
- Dog Manure: Place dog manure near burrow entrances. The scent of predator urine can deter groundhogs.
- Rancid Oils: Soak rags in oils like peanut oil or olive oil and place them near burrow entrances. As the oils become rancid, the smell can drive groundhogs away. Replace these rags regularly.
- Commercial Repellents: You can purchase commercial groundhog repellents, often containing animal urine, at farm supply stores or garden centers. Always apply these products according to the label directions.
Caution: Be mindful when using smell deterrents around decks or patios, as they may also make those areas unpleasant for you.
Trapping and Relocation: A Humane Removal Option
Catch-and-release trapping is a humane method for removing groundhogs from your property.
1. Hav-A-Heart Traps
Use a humane live trap, such as a Hav-A-Heart trap, that is appropriately sized for groundhogs.
2. Baiting the Trap
Groundhogs are attracted to sweet foods. Cantaloupe, as mentioned in the original article, works well as bait. Other effective baits include:
- Slices of apple or other fruits
- Peanut butter
- Sweet corn
Place the bait at the back of the trap to encourage the groundhog to enter fully.
3. Trap Placement and Monitoring
Position the trap near the burrow entrance or in an area where you’ve seen groundhog activity. Check the trap frequently, ideally daily. Once you’ve caught a groundhog, it’s crucial to relocate it immediately to minimize stress for the animal.
4. Relocation
When relocating a groundhog, choose a safe location that is at least 5-10 miles away from your property. Ideal relocation spots include wooded areas or parks away from residential areas and gardens. Ensure the location offers food and shelter.
Important: Relocate groundhogs before late fall (September at the latest) to give them time to acclimate to their new surroundings before hibernation. Also, be aware of local regulations regarding wildlife trapping and relocation.
Harsher Methods (Use with Caution and as a Last Resort)
Harsher methods should only be considered as a last resort when humane methods have failed and groundhog damage is severe.
1. Gas Cartridges
Commercial gas cartridges release carbon monoxide into the burrow system, which is lethal. These should be used with extreme caution and strictly according to label directions. Gas cartridges are dangerous to humans and other animals and should only be used if you are absolutely certain of the burrow system and that no other animals are present.
2. Firearms
In some areas, firearms may be a legal option for groundhog removal. However, this method is not recommended for most homeowners due to safety concerns and local regulations. Always check with your local wildlife authorities (like the Delaware Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Control-Fish and Wildlife Section mentioned in the original article, or your equivalent local agency) regarding the legality of lethal removal methods and firearm use.
Ethical Consideration: Lethal methods are generally considered inhumane and should only be employed when all other options have been exhausted and when permitted by law.
Preventing Future Groundhog Problems
Once you’ve successfully removed groundhogs, take steps to prevent them from returning:
- Seal Burrows: After removing groundhogs (especially after relocation or ensuring they’ve left), seal up burrow entrances. You can use rocks, soil, or fill the holes with gravel and then cover with soil.
- Maintain Your Yard: Keep grass mowed short, clear brush and debris, and remove woodpiles to reduce groundhog habitat.
- Protect Vulnerable Areas: Continue using fencing around gardens and vulnerable structures.
- Regular Monitoring: Periodically inspect your property for signs of new burrowing activity.
By understanding groundhog behavior and implementing these preventative and removal strategies, you can effectively manage groundhog problems and protect your property and garden. Remember to prioritize humane methods whenever possible and consult local wildlife authorities if you have any questions or concerns.
