Groundhog Facts
The groundhog is also known as a woodchuck or gopher. Groundhogs are common across North America, but are most often found in the Northeastern United States and across Canada. Mating occurs from March until April. In the wild, groundhogs can live anywhere between two to six years, and up to 14 years in captivity. As herbivores, groundhogs eat grasses, weeds, clover, fruit, berries, and vegetables. Anything sweet or juicy is appealing to the groundhog.
Groundhog Damage
Groundhogs love to dine on plants in flower and vegetable gardens, so your green thumb may be a little sore if these critters are roaming around your yard. Groundhogs also gnaw on power cables, causing electrical issues. Burrowing causes problems everywhere. It is possible to stumble into one of their holes if you live in an agricultural area. Cattle and horses are particularly at risk if they are grazing. In urban and suburban settings, driveways and parking lots can cave in from groundhog burrows. Building foundations can also be undermined.
It’s not uncommon to see adult groundhogs laying out in the sun in a grassy area. Usually this indicates its burrow is near. Groundhogs will emit a sharp whistling noise, signaling danger and leave a distinct odor around their burrows. They also leave large mounds of dirt near the entrances to their dens.
Types of Groundhogs
Groundhog Identification
Groundhogs normally measure between 20 to 27 inches long. Groundhogs can be identified by their brown bodies, although some are yellowish or blackish brown.
Groundhogs in the Yard & Garden
If you live in a suburb, it’s more than possible your yard has seen a groundhog. They love to burrow under barns, sheds, porches, decks, stone walls, and woodpiles. If you have a wooded area, field, or park near by, this increases the likelihood of seeing a groundhog.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep groundhogs away?
To not experience your own “Groundhog Day” nightmare over and over again, excluding the groundhog is your best bet. Building fences that are high and deeply planted in the ground around your flowers and vegetables may discourage them from getting into your garden. Cutting tall grasses and keeping shrubs trimmed will reduce their shelter, as well as sources of food.
If they have denned under a building, install a one-way door that allows them to escape, but not to re-enter. After all groundhogs are out, screening areas with wire mesh will discourage them from getting back under a deck, porch, or other similar structure. Capturing and releasing them with traps is also an option. If you have a consistent problem, calling pest professionals may help, as they will have access to a wider variety of solutions to help relieve you of this troublesome pest.
What are the benefits of professional groundhog pest control?
Expert pest specialists have the educational background, equipment, and skill to control and remove wildlife nuisances from a property in a safe, efficient way.
If you’re struggling with groundhogs on your property, contact us. Our technicians can remove the rodents and help you regain control of your property and sanity.
