Groundhog Day is approaching, but you will not want a groundhog declaring 6 more weeks of Winter on your property. If you have groundhogs on your property, you should have them safely and humanely removed. While they generally hibernate through the winter, they may try to move onto your property as spring approaches.

Groundhog Habits

Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are active diggers who make intricate tunnel systems for burrows. These tunnel systems can wreak havoc on lawns and gardens. Furthermore, groundhogs love to forage for food in gardens. They eat various plant materials, and a well-stocked garden can be like a buffet.

Protecting Your Garden from Groundhogs

The best way to defend your garden is to build a barrier. A sturdy fence should be at least 3 feet above ground, and extend 1-2 feet below the dirt. This will help prevent them from burrowing under it. Consider growing garlic or peppers. Woodchucks will likely leave these alone and may avoid surrounding plants as well. Additionally, you can sprinkle cayenne pepper around your garden. Groundhogs and other pest animals don’t like the smell or taste of the hot peppers.
If you have pets, these pests may want to avoid them or their scents. Consider sprinkling your dog or cat’s hair around the garden. The scent of “predator” animals can keep them from returning to feed.

Deterring Groundhogs from Burrowing

Groundhogs can be deterred from digging burrows and tunnels. The best way to do this is regular lawn and landscaping care. Woodchucks will often rely on tall grass and unkempt bushes to hide when above ground. Reducing hiding places can make critters less comfortable in your backyard. Additionally, you are more likely to notice burrow holes on a well-managed lawn.
Motion-activated sprinkler systems are also a possibility. This humane practice can startle and deter groundhogs and other pest animals from taking shelter on your property.

Call a Humane Wildlife Removal Specialist

If groundhogs are tunneling through your lawn and ravaging your garden, you should contact a humane wildlife removal specialist. A licensed removal specialist will humanely trap and relocate the groundhogs so they don’t return.

We specialize in the humane removal of raccoons, rats, squirrels, and other pests in the New York/New Jersey area. For a complete inspection and evaluation please contact us or call us at 718-227-7227 and we will be happy to make an appointment at your convenience.