Groundhogs (woodchucks) are large rodents whose burrowing habits cause significant problems, especially when they choose to live beneath a shed. A shed offers an attractive habitat: a secure, dry, and protected space shielded from predators and weather. The loose, dry soil beneath the structure is ideal for digging the extensive tunnel networks groundhogs require. Allowing this burrowing to continue can undermine the foundation, potentially leading to instability and expensive repairs. Addressing the groundhog’s presence quickly protects property integrity.
State Laws and Assessing the Groundhog’s Presence
Before attempting removal, understand local regulations concerning groundhogs, as laws regarding trapping, relocation, and lethal control vary significantly by state and municipality. Groundhogs are often classified as nuisance animals, but some jurisdictions prohibit relocating captured wildlife to prevent disease spread or creating a problem for another landowner. Contacting a local animal services department or a state wildlife agency provides the specific legal information required to proceed without penalty.
Determining if the burrow is currently occupied is a practical step before beginning removal. Groundhog burrows are identifiable by large entrance holes, typically 10 to 12 inches in diameter, surrounded by a mound of excavated dirt. To confirm activity, loosely cover the main entrance with a light layer of dirt, wadded newspaper, or flour. If the material is disturbed or pushed aside by the next morning, the groundhog is actively using the burrow, and removal efforts can begin.
Humane and Effective Methods for Removal
The initial approach should focus on humane methods that encourage the groundhog to leave the confined space naturally. One effective technique is applying strong-smelling deterrents near the burrow entrance, which groundhogs find highly unpleasant due to their strong sense of smell. Substances like ammonia-soaked rags, predator urine, or a mixture of cayenne pepper and water can be placed inside or near the opening. These deterrents must be reapplied frequently, especially after rain, because their effectiveness fades quickly.
Another strategy involves creating an inhospitable environment through noise and vibration, which groundhogs dislike. Placing a loud radio near the burrow entrance or installing a device that generates constant low-level vibration can make the area unappealing for their den. These sensory deterrents are most successful when used consistently over several days to convince the animal that the location is no longer safe or quiet.
For direct, active removal, a one-way exclusion door can be installed over the primary burrow entrance. This specialized device is a temporary barrier that allows the groundhog to exit for foraging but prevents it from re-entering the shed’s shelter. Ensure all other secondary entrances are sealed before installing the one-way door to guarantee the animal is forced to use that specific exit.
Live trapping remains one of the most reliable methods for removing a persistent groundhog, though it requires careful attention to legal requirements. A large, sturdy cage trap should be placed directly in the groundhog’s travel path or near the burrow entrance, baited with fresh vegetables or fruit. Handle the trap while wearing gloves to prevent the transfer of human scent, which can deter the groundhog from entering. Once captured, the animal must be dealt with immediately, strictly adhering to local laws regarding relocation or euthanasia.
Permanent Exclusion and Property Restoration
After confirming the groundhog has permanently vacated the area, property restoration and physical exclusion must be implemented to prevent future occupancy. The most robust, long-term solution is installing an L-shaped physical barrier, often called a groundhog apron, around the shed’s perimeter. This involves using heavy-duty, galvanized wire mesh or hardware cloth, which resists corrosion and is too strong for the animal to chew through.
A trench should be dug around the shed’s foundation, ideally at least 12 inches deep. The wire mesh is secured vertically to the base of the shed and extended down into the trench. At the bottom, the mesh is bent outward at a 90-degree angle, extending horizontally for another 12 inches. This horizontal flair acts as an underground deterrent, as the groundhog will encounter the wire barrier when attempting to dig beneath the shed.
The trench should be backfilled with soil or, for added resistance, a mixture of soil and coarse gravel, which collapses easily and discourages digging. Once the barrier is secured, the old burrow tunnels need to be completely filled with soil and tamped down firmly. Removing overgrown vegetation, fallen debris, or other attractants near the shed will reduce the likelihood of another groundhog being drawn to the location.