When a large hole appears in the yard, identifying the animal responsible is the first step toward resolution. Large burrows pose a safety risk, potentially causing falls or structural threats to nearby foundations, sheds, or porches. Distinguishing between species is possible by examining the size, shape, and surrounding features of the entrance, allowing for targeted and humane relocation strategies.
Primary Suspects for Large Yard Excavations
The species most commonly responsible for large residential excavations primarily dig for denning purposes. The groundhog, also known as a woodchuck, is a highly capable digger whose main burrow entrance typically measures 10 to 12 inches in diameter. These complex burrows can extend up to 50 feet in length and six feet deep, often featuring multiple, less obvious exits.
Coyotes and foxes are also frequent excavators, often taking over and enlarging existing burrows. A red fox den entrance is usually 6 to 12 inches, while a coyote den can be substantially larger, sometimes exceeding a foot in width. These canines use dens only for a temporary period, mainly in the spring when they are raising pups.
Badgers, where regionally present, create the most dramatic excavations due to their powerful claws. Badger setts feature very large entrances, often over a foot in diameter, and are characteristically wider than they are tall. These animals establish permanent, extensive, multi-generational burrow systems. Raccoons may also dig just enough to gain access to a sheltered space directly under a structure.
Decoding Hole Shapes and Entrance Clues
The physical characteristics of the hole provide the most reliable evidence for species identification. A groundhog’s main entrance is distinguished by a large, fan-shaped mound of freshly excavated dirt, known as a “dirt porch,” that slopes away from the hole. This is a clear sign of an active woodchuck burrow.
Badger setts are recognized by their massive, distinct debris pile, which often looks like a small crater with the entrance at its center. This spoil heap frequently contains rocks and soil aggressively clawed out.
In contrast, fox and coyote dens typically have a more subtle, trampled appearance around the entrance due to the frequent movement of adults and pups. Fox dens are usually oval-shaped and often have multiple entrances serving as escape routes. Both canine dens may have scat or prey remains, such as bones or feathers, scattered nearby.
Understanding the Motivation Behind the Digging
Animals dig large burrows for two primary reasons: permanent habitation or temporary food storage. Habitation is the motivation for groundhogs and badgers, who construct complex, long-term underground homes for security, hibernation, and raising young. These burrows often feature internal drainage and multiple chambers, indicating the animal intends to use the location for an extended period.
Foxes and coyotes primarily dig dens only when a female is preparing to give birth and raise pups. Since the den is typically abandoned once the young follow their parents, this problem is seasonal and temporary.
The second motivation is food caching, which usually involves smaller, shallower holes. However, coyotes and foxes may dig substantial holes to bury surplus food or a large carcass. While caching is a short-term activity, repeated digging can still cause considerable yard damage.
Effective and Humane Deterrent Strategies
The most effective, long-term solution for preventing large burrows is exclusion, which physically prevents the animal from accessing the desired digging area. For persistent burrowers seeking shelter under decks, sheds, or porches, an L-footer barrier is highly recommended. This barrier uses heavy-gauge wire mesh, such as hardware cloth, buried at least 12 inches deep, and then bent outward in an “L” shape for another 12 inches to create a horizontal apron beneath the soil.
Habitat modification is an important preventative measure that makes the yard less appealing for den establishment. This involves removing dense cover, such as brush piles and low-hanging shrubs, which eliminates the secluded spots foxes and groundhogs prefer. Keeping the grass cut low around structures also reduces the sense of security these animals seek.
Scent and taste repellents are considered temporary fixes, as animals often become accustomed to the odors, but they can be used to encourage an animal to leave an active burrow. Products containing predator urine or strong scents like ammonia-soaked rags placed just inside the entrance can make the den feel unsafe. If a burrow is located directly under a home’s foundation or if the animal is a protected species, contact a licensed wildlife removal specialist or animal control.