Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are found in Georgia. These large rodents are common inhabitants across the state.
Groundhog Presence in Georgia
Groundhogs are widely distributed throughout Georgia, primarily in the northern and central regions, from the Piedmont plateau to the North Georgia mountains. Their range has expanded over time; once restricted to mountainous areas, they are now observed as far south as Macon. Their expansion is partly due to adaptability to human-altered landscapes.
They thrive in environments with food and cover, such as open woodlands, pastures, and agricultural fields. Groundhogs establish burrows in clearings, hedgerows, and suburban areas. They are also found near fencerows, embankments, retaining walls, kudzu patches, and underneath human-made structures.
Groundhog Characteristics and Behavior
Groundhogs are stout, stocky rodents, measuring between 16 and 27 inches in length, excluding their 4 to 7-inch tails. Their weight ranges from 5 to 15 pounds, becoming heavier in autumn as they prepare for winter. Their fur is grizzled, appearing reddish-brown to grayish-brown, intermixed with yellow and black. They possess small, rounded ears and a rounded head.
These animals are strong diggers, equipped with powerful, short legs and broad, long curved claws. They construct complex burrow systems extending 2 to 5 feet deep and up to 60 feet in length. These burrows feature multiple entrances, ranging from two to ten, and include a “plunge hole” for quick escape. Within their underground networks, groundhogs create separate chambers for nesting, sleeping, hibernation, and waste disposal.
Groundhogs are primarily herbivorous, with their diet consisting of plants, grasses, clover, alfalfa, fruits, and garden vegetables. They also consume bark and occasionally supplement their diet with insects or bird eggs. They obtain liquids from the moisture in dewy plants.
Groundhogs are true hibernators, sleeping from October or November to March or April. In Georgia, their hibernation periods are shorter due to milder winters. During this time, they can lose up to half of their body weight. Males emerge earlier than females. Groundhogs are diurnal, active in early morning and late afternoon, and are solitary.
Coexisting with Groundhogs in Georgia
While groundhogs play a role in the ecosystem, their burrowing and feeding habits can conflict with humans in Georgia. They damage gardens and crops, destroying entire beds of vegetables and flowers. Their extensive burrow systems undermine foundations, sidewalks, driveways, decks, patios, and sheds, leading to costly repairs. Burrow holes also pose tripping hazards for people and livestock.
To mitigate issues, property owners can employ strategies. Installing sturdy fencing around gardens, at least 3 to 4 feet high and buried 12 to 18 inches deep with an L-footer, deters groundhogs from digging underneath. Exclusion methods, like buried barriers or hardware cloth around and under structures, prevent burrowing. Modifying the habitat by removing brush piles and keeping grass low around buildings makes an area less appealing.
For existing groundhog presence, humane trapping using live traps baited with fruits or vegetables. Traps should be checked daily to ensure the animal’s welfare. After removal, sealing the burrows prevents other animals from using them.
In Georgia, groundhogs are not a protected species; they can be trapped or shot year-round without bag limits, in accordance with hunting and firearm laws. However, holding live groundhogs requires permits. Fumigation with gas cartridges can be used, but not near structures due to safety concerns. Professional wildlife removal services can manage groundhog issues, ensuring compliance with state regulations.