Groundhogs are common burrowing rodents whose presence near a garage demands immediate attention. These powerful excavators create extensive tunnel systems that can quickly compromise a building’s foundation. Addressing a groundhog burrow early is the most effective way to prevent costly structural damage and safely remove the animal from the premises. The removal process involves two stages: safely evicting the current resident and implementing long-term exclusion methods to prevent future re-infestation.
Why Groundhogs Choose Garages
Groundhogs are drawn to garage foundations and slabs primarily because these structures offer unparalleled protection and stability for their homes. The concrete slab acts as a ready-made roof, shielding the entrance from predators and the elements, while also providing a stable, temperature-regulated environment for nesting. This overhead cover allows the groundhog to dig its extensive network of tunnels with less concern for collapse or detection.
The danger of this burrowing behavior is significant because a single groundhog can displace up to 700 pounds of soil in the creation of its den system. These complex networks can extend up to 100 feet in length, with the main tunnel typically descending 3 to 6 feet below the surface.
When this immense volume of earth is removed from beneath a garage slab, it creates a void that is no longer capable of supporting the structure’s weight. This undermining leads directly to structural instability, manifesting as cracks in the concrete slab, uneven settling, or localized collapse. Tunnels can also redirect water flow, causing increased moisture retention and soil erosion against the foundation walls. Ignoring a groundhog burrow near a garage can result in thousands of dollars in foundation repair costs, making prompt removal an imperative.
Humane Removal and Relocation Techniques
The most effective and humane strategy for active groundhog removal is live trapping, followed by relocation away from residential areas. Before setting any traps, confirm the animal’s current activity level by lightly filling the burrow entrance with crumpled newspaper or soil; if the groundhog is present, it will push out the blockage within a day. A sturdy, medium-sized live trap should be positioned directly in the groundhog’s travel path near the main burrow opening.
Groundhogs are herbivores, and the trap should be baited with fresh, appealing produce such as cantaloupe, sweet corn, or slices of apple. To avoid transferring human scent that might deter the wary animal, wear gloves when handling the trap and bait.
Once the groundhog is captured, it is necessary to check local wildlife regulations, as laws regarding the relocation of nuisance animals vary widely by state and municipality. In many areas, it is illegal to relocate wildlife without a permit, or there may be specific distance requirements to prevent the animal from immediately returning.
Another effective, active removal method is the installation of a one-way exclusion funnel over the primary burrow entrance. This device allows the groundhog to exit the burrow to feed but prevents it from re-entering the structure upon its return. The entire area must be monitored carefully to ensure the groundhog has definitively left before any permanent exclusion work begins.
Permanent Exclusion Measures
Once the groundhog has been successfully removed, the area must be secured with permanent exclusion barriers to prevent a new animal from moving into the vacated tunnel system. The most reliable method is the installation of an underground wire mesh barrier, often referred to as an L-foot exclusion. This process begins by digging a narrow trench around the perimeter of the garage slab or foundation where the burrowing occurred.
The trench should be dug to a depth of at least 12 to 18 inches to deter persistent digging attempts. Heavy-gauge galvanized hardware cloth or welded wire mesh, with openings no larger than one inch, should be used for the barrier. Avoid using standard chicken wire, as groundhogs can easily chew or bend it.
The wire mesh should be secured flush against the garage foundation, extending down into the trench, and then bent outward in a 90-degree angle to create an ‘L’ shape facing away from the structure. This outward bend, which should extend 12 inches horizontally, acts as an underground apron that frustrates the groundhog when it tries to dig under the foundation. After the wire is installed, the trench should be completely backfilled with soil and compacted firmly.
After the exclusion barrier is in place, all existing voids and tunnels underneath the slab must be filled to restore structural support. Materials such as concrete, flowable fill, or controlled density fill are preferable to standard dirt, as they will prevent future settling and re-excavation. Finally, modify the surrounding habitat by clearing away dense brush, low-hanging plants, or debris piles located immediately next to the garage, as these items offer concealment and attract groundhogs seeking shelter.