How to Get Rid of Groundhogs: Methods, Tips, and Techniques

Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, can be a significant nuisance when they take up residence in your yard or garden. They burrow, eat vegetation, and can even damage property. Here, we explore the most effective methods for getting rid of groundhogs, from humane trapping to less effective measures such as fumigating. We also provide tips on preventing groundhogs from settling in the first place.

Humanely Trapping Groundhogs

If you decide to trap groundhogs, it's important to follow legal and ethical guidelines to ensure the well-being of the animals. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Do Your Research: Before relocating any trapped wildlife, check with your state’s wildlife agency about the laws and regulations regarding the relocation of groundhogs. These laws can vary significantly from state to state. Prepare the Trap: Wear gloves when handling the trap to keep your scent off it. Place it directly in front of the burrow entrance. Spraying it with water and rolling it in dirt can help camouflage it. Bait the Trap: Use fruits or vegetables, such as cantaloupe, as bait. This is particularly effective if you’ve noticed anything disappearing from your garden. Place the bait as far back as possible in the trap to ensure the groundhog must enter fully. Camouflage the Trap: Place sticks, dirt, and leaves inside and around the trap, then set the trigger. Follow the instructions on the packaging carefully. Check the Trap Regularly: An unhappy groundhog can injure itself in distress. Check the trap frequently and handle it only while wearing thick gloves and holding it away from your body. Release the Groundhog: Transport the groundhog at least 5 miles away from your property to an area that is attractive to it. Stand back as it exits the trap, as groundhogs are not typically aggressive but can be startled.

Fumigation

Fumigation is another method, but it comes with significant risks and ethical concerns. Weigh the pros and cons before considering this approach:

Consider Carefully: Many people advise against using poison to control groundhogs due to the potential suffering it causes and the ineffective results. Locate Burrow Entrances: Groundhogs typically hibernate in late September or October, so target them before then. Mark each burrow entrance with a piece of sod. Follow Instructions Cautiously: Use a fumigation cartridge from a reputable brand, read the instructions carefully, and follow the lighting and placement procedures.

While fumigation can be effective, it poses significant risks to the environment and can harm pets and humans. Consider the better alternative of trapping or natural deterrents if possible.

Killing Groundhogs Without Fumigation

For those who prefer eliminating groundhogs without using poison, here are some options:

Use Lethal Traps: These traps can be inhumane and may not kill animals instantly. They also pose a risk to children and pets. Follow instructions carefully. Use Poison: Similar to fumigation, poison can be hazardous and leave toxic residue. Place it in areas frequented by groundhogs if you decide to use this method. Shoot Them: This is generally only an option in very rural areas with excellent marksmanship skills. A wounded groundhog can become more aggressive and dangerous.

Discouraging Groundhogs from Settling Down

The most proactive approach is to discourage groundhogs from settling in your yard in the first place:

Make Your Yard Less Attractive: Remove brush, rock piles, and overgrown foliage. Fill in burrows and trim tree trunks. Install a Fence: A wire fence with openings no larger than 3 inches, 3-4 feet above ground, and extending 2 feet deep can prevent groundhogs from entering. Use Epsom Salts: Sprinkling Epsom salts on plants can make them unappealing to groundhogs, but they need to be reapplied after rainfall. Scare Them Off: Use predator urine scent, ammonia-soaked rags, or chemical repellents to deter groundhogs from your yard.

By taking a combination of these measures, you can effectively manage groundhog populations and protect your property without resorting to harmful methods.

Conclusion

Groundhogs can cause significant damage to your property, but there are humane and effective methods for dealing with them. Whether you opt for trapping, deterrents, or prevention, prioritizing the well-being of both the groundhogs and your property is key.