Groundhogs—also known as woodchucks—might look cute and harmless, but they can cause serious damage to your yard, foundation, and even underground utilities. These burrowing animals are notorious for digging extensive tunnel systems beneath decks, sheds, and homes. If you’ve spotted one on your property or noticed signs of digging, it’s time to consider professional groundhog removal services to protect your property.
Why Groundhogs Are a Problem
Groundhogs are herbivores that feed on a variety of plants, vegetables, and grasses. This makes gardens and landscaped lawns ideal feeding grounds. But what truly sets groundhogs apart from other wildlife is their burrowing behavior.
A single groundhog can dig a tunnel system that spans over 30 feet, complete with multiple entrances and chambers. These burrows can undermine:
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Home foundations
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Sheds and decks
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Fences
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Driveways and sidewalks
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Septic systems and utility lines
Left unaddressed, groundhog activity can lead to structural damage and costly repairs.
Common Signs of Groundhog Activity
Groundhogs are primarily active during the day, especially early morning and late afternoon. Look for the following signs:
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Large, crescent-shaped holes near your foundation, garden, or shed
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Mounds of dirt outside entry holes
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Damaged plants and crops in your garden
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Worn paths or trails in grassy areas
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Sightings of a groundhog or its young
If you spot any of these, it’s important to act quickly. Groundhogs breed in early spring, and a small problem can grow quickly into a larger infestation.
The Dangers of DIY Groundhog Removal
While there are traps and repellents available at hardware stores, DIY groundhog removal is often ineffective—and potentially dangerous. Groundhogs can be aggressive when cornered and may bite if threatened. Additionally, improper handling may violate local wildlife laws or result in inhumane outcomes.
Groundhogs are clever animals. They may avoid poorly placed traps or simply dig new burrows nearby. That’s why it’s important to call in professionals who understand groundhog behavior and use safe, humane, and legal methods of removal.
What to Expect from Professional Groundhog Removal Services
A reputable groundhog removal company follows a strategic, step-by-step approach to ensure long-term success:
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Inspection – Technicians will inspect your property to locate all burrow entrances, damage, and signs of groundhog activity.
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Live Trapping – Humane live traps are placed near active tunnels and baited with food groundhogs are drawn to.
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Relocation – Captured groundhogs are relocated in compliance with state and local wildlife regulations.
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Exclusion – After removal, burrows are collapsed and entry points are sealed with dirt, gravel, or fencing to prevent return.
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Damage Repair – Many services also offer basic repair work to fill holes and restore landscaping.
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Prevention Tips – Experts provide advice on how to make your property less attractive to groundhogs in the future.
Groundhog Prevention Tips
Once a groundhog is removed, it’s important to take steps to keep others from moving in:
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Install fencing: Use heavy-duty mesh fencing buried at least 12 inches underground.
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Keep vegetation trimmed: Groundhogs like cover, so trim shrubs and tall grass.
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Secure sheds and decks: Add barriers to prevent animals from burrowing underneath.
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Harvest gardens early: Don’t leave produce lying around too long.
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Use repellents: Natural repellents like garlic spray or castor oil granules may help deter groundhogs.
Don’t Wait—Protect Your Property Today
Groundhogs may not seem like a big deal at first, but the damage they cause can be extensive and expensive. The sooner you address the problem, the easier it is to prevent long-term harm. Whether you’re dealing with a single groundhog or a growing colony, professional groundhog removal services offer a safe, humane, and effective solution.
Contact a licensed wildlife control expert today to schedule an inspection and keep your property protected from unwanted burrowing pests.
