The groundhog is a highly destructive rodent whose burrowing habits and voracious appetite can quickly devastate gardens and compromise structural integrity. These animals are members of the squirrel family and forage heavily throughout the warmer months to prepare for winter hibernation. Because a single groundhog can consume over a pound of vegetation daily, addressing an infestation promptly is necessary to prevent extensive property damage. Effective control involves identifying their presence, implementing preventative measures, and using targeted removal methods.
Recognizing Groundhog Activity
Groundhog burrows are characterized by large, circular main entrances, typically 10 to 12 inches in diameter, often featuring a substantial mound of excavated dirt immediately outside the opening. These tunnel systems are usually dug under sheds, porches, or thick vegetation, where the soil is loose and well-drained. The presence of these burrows near structural foundations can destabilize the ground, leading to potential sinking or collapse over time.
Above ground, the damage appears as cleanly gnawed-off vegetation, particularly fresh vegetables, clover, and leafy greens. Groundhogs also gnaw on the bark of young trees and ornamental shrubs. Since they are diurnal, groundhogs are most active during the day, frequently seen foraging in the early morning and late afternoon. Observing the animal during these peak times can confirm the identity of the culprit before any removal attempts begin.
Non-Lethal Exclusion Techniques
Exclusion is the most reliable long-term strategy for preventing groundhogs from accessing vulnerable areas like gardens and under-deck spaces. A physical barrier must be constructed using heavy-gauge, galvanized wire mesh with openings no larger than 3/4 inch. The fence should stand at least 24 to 30 inches above the ground to deter climbing.
The fence must also extend underground to block the groundhog’s digging efforts. This requires burying the mesh at least 12 to 18 inches deep, bending the bottom portion outward into an “L” shape facing away from the protected area. Habitat modification is also a significant deterrent, requiring the removal of brush piles, rock stacks, and tall weeds that provide cover and ideal burrowing locations.
Motion-activated sprinklers use an infrared sensor to detect movement, instantly releasing a sudden, startling burst of water and sound. This conditions the animal to associate the protected area with an unpleasant surprise. These devices encourage the groundhog to move its activities elsewhere.
Active Removal and Control Methods
Active removal, typically through live trapping, becomes necessary. Traps should be a two-door or single-door cage model, sized between 32 and 42 inches in length. Live traps should be placed directly in the groundhog’s path, often 5 to 10 feet from the most active burrow entrance.
Groundhogs respond well to sweet fruits and tender vegetables. Cantaloupe pieces, apples, and leafy greens like clover are highly attractive baits. Wear gloves when handling and setting the trap to prevent leaving human scent, as this odor can make the wary animal avoid the enclosure.
Commercial repellents offer mixed results and are generally considered short-term fixes. These products must be periodically re-applied, especially after rain, and cannot be sprayed directly onto edible crops. Lethal control methods, such as fumigating burrows with gas cartridges, are highly regulated due to the inherent danger to non-target animals, pets, and the user, and are generally best left to licensed pest control operators.
Regulations Governing Wildlife Removal
Groundhogs are classified as wild animals, and their removal is subject to specific state, county, and municipal wildlife regulations. Before setting any trap, it is mandatory to consult the local Fish and Wildlife agency, as laws concerning the relocation of trapped animals vary significantly. Some jurisdictions prohibit relocation entirely, requiring the captured animal to be euthanized or released immediately on-site.
This restriction is often in place because groundhogs are a rabies vector species in certain regions, and moving them can spread disease to new areas. Specific methods like shooting or gassing burrows may be illegal or require a special permit, particularly within city limits.