Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, might look cute from a distance, but for homeowners and gardeners, they can quickly become a serious nuisance. If you’ve noticed mounds of soil, eaten plants, or holes near your shed or deck, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with a groundhog problem. In this blog, we’ll explore how to get rid of groundhogs and how to keep them away for good.
How to Get Rid of Groundhogs?
There are several methods for removing groundhogs, ranging from DIY approaches to professional interventions. Here are some of the most effective strategies:
Live Trapping
Live traps are a humane way to capture and relocate groundhogs. Use bait such as cantaloupe, apples, or lettuce, and place the trap near the entrance of their burrow. Always check local wildlife regulations before relocating an animal.
Fencing
Install a sturdy fence around your garden or property. A groundhog-proof fence should be at least 3 feet high and buried at least 1 foot underground. Bending the top of the fence outward at a 45-degree angle will prevent them from climbing over.
Repellents
There are both commercial and homemade repellents available. These often use smells or tastes that groundhogs dislike, such as garlic, pepper, or predator urine. While repellents can be effective temporarily, they often need reapplication after rain or watering.
Flooding or Smoking the Burrow
Some homeowners try flooding or smoking groundhog burrows. These methods are not always effective and can be dangerous or inhumane. They should be used with caution and are best left to professionals.
How to Prevent Groundhogs from Home?
Once you’ve removed the groundhogs, it’s important to take steps to ensure they don’t return:
- Seal Off Access Points: Close off spaces under decks, sheds, and porches with hardware cloth or lattice buried into the ground. This eliminates ideal burrowing locations.
- Remove Attractants: Groundhogs are drawn to easy food sources. Harvest garden crops promptly, secure trash bins, and clean up fallen fruits or vegetables.
- Keep the Yard Tidy: Trim tall grass, remove brush piles, and avoid clutter that could provide cover for groundhogs.
- Use Motion-Activated Devices: Sprinklers or ultrasonic repellents that activate with movement can scare groundhogs away before they settle in.
Conclusion
Dealing with groundhogs can be frustrating, especially when they keep returning despite your best DIY efforts. While methods like fencing, repellents, and trapping can be effective for minor infestations but for continuous infestations, contact a licensed pest control service. Professionals have the experience and tools needed to remove groundhogs efficiently and ensure they don’t come back.
