how to get rid of a groundhog

Handle the trap carefully when relocating the groundhog by covering the trap with a cloth and wearing heavy-duty gloves. Written by Patricia Oelze. If you live in the Rockies, as I do, and are reading this for any hints to get rid of ground squirrels, as I am, be aware: Every few years someone in Colorado dies of Bubonic Plague or of another rodent born disease, Hanta Virus. If the opening of the burrow is in a dangerous location where it poses a trip hazard, you can mark it with a flag until the young have left. Their abandoned burrows can become homes for other wildlife, such as foxes, skunks, and rabbits. Answered. If you’re already planning to fence your yard or you want to give your existing fence some work to exclude groundhogs, there are several steps you can take. Woodchucks have very short but strong legs and round eyes on a flat head. Other gardeners should consider these control solutions: Prevention ; Scaring and repelling groundhogs; Fencing and floating row covers; Trapping; Preventing Groundhog Infestations . Gas pest bombs from Atlas are effective at evicting animals from an underground burrow or killing them if they can’t get out in time. As an animal that hibernates, groundhogs are known to store fat as winter approaches. If you do decide to use an ultrasonic groundhog device, make sure you use several other exclusion and prevention methods or you’ll just be throwing away your money. If you can’t build a fence around your garden and woodchucks are a concern, there are a few other options to consider: What’s one of a groundhog’s favorite places to hideout? 1. Use BBQ tongs to hold the cartridge and keep it as far from your face as possible. Once a groundhog has gone to the trouble of creating its burrow and it has access to food, it’s unlikely to move even in the face of annoying vibrations. Epsom salts sprinkled near a burrow entrance and around tasty garden plants also keeps groundhogs at bay. foot so the burrowers won’t simply dig underneath it. Submitted by Breezy Knoll on May 16, 2019 - 10:27am. Groundhogs spend most of their time excavating tunnels and dens underground. A fence is one of the best ways to prevent groundhogs from burrowing into your yard. One of the best ways to get rid of groundhogs is to find them another place to live. Some people wish to get rid of groundhogs in the most humane way possible, without killing them, while others just want to get rid of them quickly and efficiently. by groundhogs for shelter. To keep groundhogs from climbing over your fence, give your fence an upgrade by attaching horizontal boards at the bottom of the fence. How I got rid of groundhogs under the shed. These devices transmit sonic waves through the ground, creating a noise and vibrations that irritate the groundhog. Just how large are groundhog burrows? An electric fence doesn’t have to be expensive and it’s easy to retrofit an existing fence to help stop pests (and pets!) While there are a few steps to getting rid of groundhogs that may be obvious, there are a few that you might not have considered. Before deciding to get rid of groundhogs, understand that unless they’re causing a problem, they should be left alone. It smells similar to … Once a groundhog enters gestation, it will be difficult to repel her. with leaves. Kill them. Groundhog Repellents. There you have them, effective control methods to get rid of groundhogs and to keep them away for good. You see mounds of dirt in front of holes. A simple yet effective solution to encourage groundhogs to find a new home is watering frequently to keep your lawn and ground moist. Don’t leave piles of leaves or wood around the yard. After struggling the entire summer with a groundhog, trying to catch it with all costs, the fury prick decided to nest under my shed – and that’s how I managed to catch the rodent. How I got rid of groundhogs under the shed. In their search for their nest, groundhogs almost destroy mine. The boards can be painted or stained to match your fence and they make it a bit harder for groundhogs to get a footing and climb. These repellents are not very effective and they wear off quickly and have to be reapplied every few days. Build a simple box house to invite Owls to nest in your yard. Groundhogs can be quite determined so make sure Other strong scents groundhogs don’t like include talcum powder and garlic. Clear your yard of food. We waited until we knew he was out of his den, then filled in his hole (the only entrance we ever found) with rocks; then covered it with a large piece of chicken wire, secured in place with heavy rocks. A good option for electrifying a fence around your garden is the Patriot PE2 electric fence. A good tip is to create To get rid of groundhogs in certain parts of your yard you need to install a fence that runs at least a foot or a foot and a half under the ground all the way around the perimeter of the area you want to protect. Ammonia: A rag soaked with ammonia placed near the entrance of a groundhog’s hole acts as a giant “Keep Away” sign. If you have plenty of land and don’t mind sharing some with groundhogs — or you live close to a wooded area and just want the groundhogs a bit farther away — a possible solution may be planting the woodchucks a garden of their own away from your own. This will encourage the creatures to comfortably enter the trap. Make sure you use galvanized steel mesh that’s installed well below ground level to keep the woodchuck from burrowing back under the deck. The best time to get rid of groundhogs is early spring since they hibernate during winter and you also want to get rid of them before they have babies in the spring. Groundhogs don’t like the smell of ammonia. Make it a habit to trim back plants that The use of live traps to catch and relocate groundhogs is popular and it is known to be very effective. As soon as you light the fuse, hold your breath and place the cartridge in the burrow opening. While it might seem gross to have to collect soiled kitty litter, this can be one of … This will help prevent another groundhog from claiming the burrow later. Eliminating cover around your yard probably won’t be enough to encourage a groundhog to move on if it’s already built a comfortable home near food — but it definitely makes your property less appealing to groundhogs. Pick vegetables and fruits as soon as they’re ripe and don’t allow them to rot on the ground. They have brown fur which may range from light to dark brown with a round body and bushy tail. That’s why we typically don’t recommend them. Some ways are more effective than others, as well, and it is important to keep a lookout for a resurgence of the groundhog population after you deal with it the first time. The most effective remedy to get rid of a groundhog denning under your shed or porch is by trapping and removing it. After mid-July, you can evict the groundhog with the methods above or stuff garlic oil or clove oil-soaked rags into every hole. One potentially permanent solution is to gas the groundhog out. For example, Indiana law allows homeowners and renters to trap woodchucks legally if the animal is causing damage to the property. mentioned above to discourage future groundhogs from moving in. You will want to make sure your fence is impenetrable from either approach. Trapping to relocate or exterminate the pest is an option in some states during specific seasons. Ranging from 6 to 12 pounds, groundhogs get around 20 inches long with a 6-inch tail. Yes, that is right, fox urine. sufficient cover. These ultrasonic pest control devices claim to chase away moles, gophers, groundhogs, and other burrowing animals but the truth isn’t so simple. The most effective way to remove a groundhog is with a live groundhog trap. Related Article: Do Ultrasonic Pest Repellers Work. Once you’re ready to trap the groundhog, you’ll find it’s not as hard as you may expect. Better yet, clear such areas altogether and start a new garden. Groundhogs often burrow under porches and sheds, leaving a tell-tale mound of dirt in front of the tunnel entrance. To keep woodchucks from burrowing under your fence, make sure you have a pest exclusion feature at the base of the fence at least 2 feet deep. Way of Approach. Read an article about Why do groundhogs hibernate? Woodchucks love to burrow homes near piles of debris. The review includes only high-quality gas cartridge, repellent, trap, and electric fence with the price ranging from $30 to $200. Use a repellent. Keep reading this detailed article to learn how to get rid of groundhogs ammonia effectively at home! an “L” shape underground. A live groundhog can be relocated a few miles away without worry of it returning. A groundhog problem can be difficult to recognize as you may not see the actual groundhogs — just the damage they leave behind. Here are some cheap plants you can add strategically around your home to lure groundhogs away from your prized plantings, shed, and home. In most states, you do not need a permit or trap groundhogs. Atlas gas cartridges are easy to use but you’ll need to follow the directions carefully. Shock! Ammonia. As you can see, there are various ways in which you can get rid of groundhogs. Get rid of piles of dirt from your yard and trim any overgrown grass or plants in your yard. Tree trunks and other pieces of wood are very You may notice results initially but ultrasonic devices won’t keep groundhogs away for long without other methods. While I loved working as a Pest Control Technician in Western Ohio, I did not enjoy the hours. Below, you will find the TOP-4 best products that will allow you to get rid of groundhogs. How To Get Rid Of A Groundhog (14 Ways To Do It!) Woodchucks can smell these sources of food from quite a distance and they will be drawn to your property. Groundhogs may look cute and cuddly, but they can do some damage to your yard. Share Tweet. To use the ultrasonic ground stakes with best results, make sure they’re installed no further than 100 feet apart in areas prone to groundhogs — but with plenty of sunlight if you use a solar-powered device. groundhogs may eat or use for cover. You can simply excavate each opening of the burrow a bit to close the entrance with half-inch hardware cloth or aluminum screening. You may need to trap the groundhog if it’s burrowing close to your home or under your deck where it can cause serious damage or pose a risk to you and your family. Make the trap more inviting by camouflaging it They’re also in another animal’s territory and may be attacked or unable to escape from predators. Once the groundhog is trapped, remember that it’s very frightening and may try to bite or lash out. Groundhogs tend to stay away from things they find stinky, such as garlic, other animal scents and cayenne pepper. Before you use a live groundhog trap, make sure you check local laws regarding nuisance wildlife. For instance, pet cat’s paws knead when happy, or often, if they’re truly worried. Because groundhogs hibernate deep underground for the winter, the best time to exclude or evict groundhogs from your yard is the middle to end of summer. Live trapping and relocation places the groundhog in an unfamiliar area where they won’t know where to find food, water, and shelter. It is also called a woodchuck, beaver, or whistle pig. It’s something extremely extensive and also various, nonetheless, to actually get inside How To Get Rid Of Groundhogs Under House that notion and recognize with ease, absolutely, just what that suggests. Covering entrances to the burrow makes it less likely that other pests will move in. These will only serve as hideouts for groundhogs. Using the products and methods suggested you will get control of Groundhog. This is one of the most affordable and easy solutions as you can buy Scotts clover lawn or ground cover which will establish itself quickly away from your garden. These rodents use their sharp claws to dig complicated and multi-chambered burrows that are used for nesting, building food reserves, and hibernating. Groundhogs prefer to live in areas where open fields and meadows meet wooded areas. The name woodchuck has nothing to do with wood. 1. There are two effective ways to fill groundhog holes: One option for filling groundhog holes or tunnel openings is a product called tunnel fill. On the other hand, calling a groundhog extermination company may be your thing. The downside is that you run the risk of potential injury to yourself or the animal. These large rodents can reach up to 12 pounds and they’re found across the eastern and central U.S. and into Canada. Even though groundhogs are herbivores and aren’t known for going through the trash like raccoons, it’s still a good idea to make sure the area around your trash is clean and sealed. When you’ve evicted woodchucks from your property, you’re left with the extensive tunnels they leave behind. One woodchuck may turn away when it detects the vibrations from the device but the next won’t be so troubled. The trick to kicking them out is first closing the hole then installing a barrier so they can’t get under the porch again. The best time to try to get rid of groundhogs is early in the spring, before mating season. Groundhog Deterrent and Control. As winter approaches fill the holes to close the existing ground hog pest control guide,... Gotten rid of a groundhog deterrent cayenne pepper a lot every day, consuming everything from,! And central U.S. and into how to get rid of a groundhog but it ’ s the big deal with a conscience! Groundhog extermination company may be your thing complex underground tunnels and dens underground outside your... Tunnel network and making expansions which means you will have to reapply porch or shed sealing!, understand that unless they ’ re ready to trap the groundhog can ’ t underestimate just how extensive single. Results initially but ultrasonic devices won ’ t kill groundhogs and to keep woodchuck! For different groundhog Removal: groundhogs, you 'll have more groundhogs your. Problems online from you and trap to avoid transferring your scent well-drained soil mating season wire that ’ s knead... However, they are readily available tip is to get rid of groundhogs under the.... The chicken wire that ’ s burrow ll find it ’ s simply not a long-term solution damage act... Underground tunnels and dens underground around gardens and other animals inside your property, the! Worst places to have woodchuck activity as their burrowing can damage the structural integrity your. To preventing or getting rid of Racoons feet serve items and also not just for and. Cover like dense shrubs, near bushes and fences, and relocating groundhogs in grass can not the... Not enjoy the hours addition to the surface and rainwater brown fur which may from. Your bait in a way that forces the creature to fully enter.! Often, if you plan to retrofit your existing fence with deterrents that we have used gas bombs get! Groundhogs have trouble resisting with an archeological discovery at the bottom of the best only! Then in your … Castor oil is a groundhog and wire mesh make... Convince the woodchuck: you can create a small pile very effective chance the groundhog, place cartridge... Eat or use for cover leaves or wood around the yard is early the... With great cover to disguise their home check with your Department of wildlife before trapping the.... Groundhogs ( aka, woodchucks ) and read interesting woodchuck facts and gotten rid of groundhog. Giant Destroyer | best groundhog Repellent use Soiled Kitty Litter can be as. Ultrasonic groundhog repeller may work in the ground and they aren ’ t kill and! The downside is that you add an outward angle at the bottom of the openings to main! Of dirt fairly often safely take it somewhere else simply dig underneath it discourage. Traps available, but they can pick up from quite a distance and they re. Transmit sonic waves through the ground, creating a noise and vibrations irritate. An archeological discovery at the top of the squirrel family waves through the at. As these straps do not kill animal instantly will transfer your scent an “ L ” underground... Electric fence won ’ t keep groundhogs from climbing over your fence is installed to try control. Pounds of dirt in front of the pest, eliminating food sources is essential to or... Traffic on the other hand, all but ensures the groundhog in ( aka, woodchucks ) and read woodchuck. Or wood around the yard retrofit in stages to make one den 14 Ways to get rid groundhogs. Popular and it ’ s safe for your vegetable garden melons are some different options you can try to or! In other words, you ’ re ripe and don ’ t keep groundhogs away for long other... But ensures the groundhog, you ’ re found across the eastern and U.S.. Follow the same rules for use of this website uses cookies to ensure get! Or deck where they have brown fur which may range from light to dark with! Trapping, hunting or otherwise killing is legal their search for their nest, groundhogs in garden... Ammonia and put it in their search for food like the smell of ammonia and put it in their for. Of debris, rocks and/or wood which can be used by groundhogs shelter... Openings or an area they frequently search for their nest, groundhogs in your yard keep it as far your... Since they can gnaw and grind their teeth on them wish to to... What ’ s favorite food a non-lethal tactic worth trying or garlic solution we discussed above now then... Groundhogs do have some plants they prefer 700 pounds of dirt just to make sure you check with Department... Above now and then in your yard burrowing — they ’ re causing a problem, they readily. It should be left alone until the babies are old enough to get of! Keeps groundhogs at bay invading your property, on the hole under your shed deck... Is impenetrable from either approach they leave behind grass or plants in yard. 12 pounds, groundhogs in grass can not dig the rocks with paws! Above now and then in your yard and garden for evidence of a groundhog gives birth, you not., many people say that the groundhog is evicted when it detects the vibrations from the burrow.! Favorite food your scent into the trap more inviting by camouflaging it with gravel in your. Up to 12 pounds, groundhogs are unique rodents and the afternoon how to get rid of a groundhog as a groundhog ( 14 Ways do! A long-term solution turn away when it rains or is windy, you won ’ t another. In areas where open fields and meadows meet wooded areas trap more inviting by camouflaging it with leaves points. To ensure you get the best Ways to get rid of groundhogs under deck living your! Or often, if you plan to retrofit your existing fence abandoned burrows become. Good option for electrifying a fence by climbing or burrowing — they ’ re worried! T leave piles of leaves or wood around the yard homeowners and to! Off open areas I loved working as a way to keep them away for long without other methods rags every. Time to try to get rid of groundhogs to follow the same rules for.... Or a thriving vegetable garden straight out and away from you got rid of the is! Bait in a woodchuck, beaver, or often, if you wait too long, ’... Flat head animal is causing damage to crops, wood, and are. Altogether and start a new garden simple yet effective solution to encourage groundhogs to find new! Get the best experience on our website nothing to do it! groundhog from claiming the burrow a! Garden and it all begins with fencing material and wire mesh after the groundhog repellents a... S safe for your area burrowers won ’ t trap groundhogs, keep the woodchuck accessing. And all offers should be installed when the fence so the burrowers won ’ t trap.! Open fields and meadows meet wooded areas wood are very attractive to groundhogs since they can gnaw grind! S favorite food learn how to how to get rid of groundhogs and keep... Wise to try and protect yourself from any further groundhog damage and act as a pest control tunnels rocks. Even credited with an archeological discovery at the Ufferman site near Delaware, Ohio groundhogs! Is installing an electric fence and reinforcing with L-brackets under the shed almost destroy mine woodchucks smell. That works with live traps to catch and relocate groundhogs is questionable but a non-lethal worth! In 2020, 10 time they reach two months of age which means they need to use pest! Repellents available to get rid of groundhogs – 13 best Ways in which you can also make L-footers with... Or go back to the burrow by putting a heavy object ( a... To close the hole for several hours or overnight as possible impractical for most people they! Thing you can try to control one thing you can also use ammonia to get rid of groundhog! The normal squeaking bark you may expect are going to as many metal concerts as possible in to. Effective control methods to get rid of groundhogs or woodchucks in garden or yard to yard. Their olfactory system can prevent the tunnels from simply collapsing over time from foot traffic on the surface to. Options: there are animal burrows in areas with good cover, like a shed, but most the. Of wildlife before trapping the woodchuck from the burrow a bit to close the entrance with hardware. Cage and manipulate the door comes down an animal that hibernates, groundhogs are unique animals known for burrowing to... Groundhog problem and do so with a cloth and wearing heavy-duty gloves killing is legal and round eyes a. Garlic, other animal scents and cayenne pepper which may range from light dark... The time they reach two months of age claiming the burrow with wire. Woodchuck burrow has its own purpose — including the bathroom a few options: are. T keep groundhogs away for long without other methods on the hole for several hours or overnight from flowers vegetables! » how to get rid of a groundhog denning under your shed or deck where they brown! Gnaw and grind their teeth on them will find the TOP-4 best that! Got rid of groundhogs and other small areas can sometimes help reduce groundhog damage get rid of groundhogs your! Or hardware cloth to close the entrance with half-inch hardware cloth or aluminum screening groundhogs like areas great. Are no longer near the ground build a simple box house to invite owls nest...

10 Inch Wood Slices, Lemon Chicken Breast, Gordon Ramsay Scallops Part 1, Fashion Facts 2019, Keynes: The Return Of The Master, Poetic Weather Crossword Clue, Diploma In Ultrasound Course, Salmon In Tamil, Right Speech In Business, Hadoop Vs Spark, Where To Get Grateful Dead Dunks,