How to Get Rid of Groundhogs to Reclaim Your Yard Safely

If you’ve ever stepped outside to admire your garden, only to find your plants mysteriously disappearing and your lawn riddled with holes, you might have a groundhog problem.

These chubby little creatures, also known as woodchucks, may look adorable, but they can wreak havoc on gardens, devouring vegetables, gnawing on tree roots, and burrowing tunnels that weaken the soil.

I’ve had my fair share of battles with these furry invaders, and I know firsthand how tricky it can be to keep them at bay. Fortunately, with the right approach, you can reclaim your garden and send these uninvited guests packing without harming them.

Understanding Groundhogs and Their Habits

These rodents are notorious for their burrowing habits, creating underground tunnels that can extend up to 30 feet. They’re most active during the early morning and late afternoon, feasting on tender greens, fruits, and even flowers. If you’ve spotted dirt mounds near your fence line or noticed your plants vanishing overnight, chances are a groundhog has made itself at home.

Their love for gardens stems from their diet, which consists of clover, dandelions, lettuce, and just about anything leafy. They’re excellent diggers, so standard fences don’t always stop them.

And as if that wasn’t enough, they hibernate in winter, meaning they’ll start eating voraciously in late summer to prepare for their long nap. Once you understand their routine, it becomes easier to strategize their removal.

Natural Repellents to Deter Groundhogs

One of the easiest ways to keep groundhogs away is to make your garden as unappealing as possible. Like most animals, they rely on their sense of smell to find food, so strong odors can send them running.

I’ve had good luck using castor oil around burrow entrances since the smell irritates them. A mixture of garlic and cayenne pepper sprinkled around the garden also works well as groundhogs despise the strong scent and will think twice before coming back.

Another trick is to soak rags in ammonia and place them near their tunnels. The smell mimics the scent of predators, making the burrow feel unsafe. However, be mindful if you have pets, as ammonia can be irritating to them as well.

Sealing Off Burrows the Right Way

Once a groundhog has claimed an area, it will keep returning unless you properly seal the burrow. I learned the hard way that simply filling the hole with dirt isn’t enough, they’ll just dig right back through.

Instead, wait until you’re sure the animal is out (usually during the day when it’s out feeding), then pack the burrow with gravel and cover it with soil. This makes it much harder for them to dig through.

Another effective method is to place a piece of chicken wire over the hole before covering it with dirt. The wire discourages them from reopening the tunnel, and over time, they’ll move on to find a new location. If you’re dealing with multiple burrows, be persistent and block each one to prevent them from shifting around your yard.

Installing Fencing That Actually Works

A fence can be an excellent deterrent, but only if it’s built correctly. Regular fences won’t cut it as groundhogs are expert diggers and can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps.

The key is to use a fence at least three feet tall with an additional foot buried underground. This prevents them from digging underneath.

I always recommend bending the top of the fence outward at a 45-degree angle, making it difficult for them to climb over. If you want extra security, try installing an electric wire a few inches off the ground. One mild zap is usually enough to discourage them from coming back.

Using Motion-Activated Deterrents

If you’re not keen on fencing, motion-activated deterrents can work wonders. I’ve had success with motion-activated sprinklers, they startle groundhogs with a sudden burst of water, making them think twice about returning.

There are also ultrasonic repellents that emit high-frequency sounds designed to irritate rodents. While not 100% foolproof, these devices can help reinforce other deterrent methods.

Encouraging Natural Predators

Nature has its own way of handling groundhog populations. Encouraging the presence of predators like foxes, hawks, or even a well-trained dog can help keep them in check.

If you live in an area where these natural predators are present, leaving their scent behind can be a strong deterrent. Sprinkling used cat litter or placing fur from a dog around burrow entrances can make a groundhog think twice about sticking around.

Trapping and Relocating

If deterrents aren’t working, trapping might be necessary. Live traps can be effective, but they require patience and the right bait.

Groundhogs love fresh vegetables, so I usually place slices of cantaloupe or lettuce inside the trap. It’s crucial to check the trap frequently to ensure the animal isn’t left inside for too long.

Once captured, relocate the groundhog at least five miles away from your property to prevent it from finding its way back. However, before trapping, check your local wildlife regulations as some areas have laws against relocating wild animals due to ecological concerns.

Preventing Future Infestations

Once you’ve successfully removed a groundhog, you’ll want to make sure another one doesn’t take its place. I always keep grass trimmed and remove any dense brush or woodpiles where they might find shelter.

Additionally, reducing their food sources can make your garden less inviting. If you grow vegetables, consider raising your garden beds or using row covers. If you compost, make sure it’s sealed properly, as groundhogs are attracted to decaying plant material.

When to Call a Professional

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, groundhogs just won’t leave. If you’ve tried everything and still find new burrows popping up, it may be time to call a professional wildlife removal service. Experts have specialized equipment and strategies to remove persistent groundhogs safely and humanely.