They usually start to hibernate from mid-October all the way to February. This is because the weather is usually ideal for them during this time.ĭuring the warmer spring and summer months, they spend most of their time sheltering in their cool burrows and only come out to feed in the early morning and evening when temperatures have dropped. Groundhogs are typically most active during early spring. The main burrow is used for raising children, sleeping, and hiding. Once one latrine is full, they usually seal it off and dig another latrine elsewhere. From their main tunnel, they usually dig another tunnel just a few feet apart, which is exclusively used as a latrine. They will then proceed to dig horizontally for 15-25 feet to prevent the tunnel from flooding in case it rains. When digging inward for several feet, they incline the tunnel upward for a few feet. That is why it is very difficult to trap a groundhog if you lack the necessary knowledge and experience. These underground burrows usually have dozens of entrances and exits. Groundhogs spend most of their time in underground burrows which can be as long as 6 feet deep. How Do Groundhogs Dig Holes In The Ground? Find out how to prevent them from damaging your yard and keep them out for good! They will climb mainly to escape predators and in search of food. Groundhogs can also skillfully climb trees, fences, and walls. That is why you need to be worried when you spot them in your backyard. Therefore, when they invade, they will eat anything that they come across in order to gain enough weight that will sustain them during the winter season, and in the process, they will leave a lot of damage. Groundhogs feed a lot to gain enough weight that will sustain them during hibernation. Their favorite foods are alfalfa and clover but they feed nearly on any plants such as grass weeds dandelion greens herbs fruits like strawberries or blueberries vegetables like cucumber, green beans, corn, or lettuce. These animals are herbivores and mainly feed on plant matter. These damages will make your yard look unsightly! What Attracts Groundhogs To The Yard?Īs expected, the main thing that attracts groundhogs to your yard is food. Other damages that groundhogs are likely to cause include damage to the grass, tearing of tree roots, and flower bed damage. – If you realize that some areas in your yard have dead or discolored grass that follows a specific path – If you spot areas in your yard that feel squishy or the soil is very loose These mounds resemble volcano-like swellings and are the entrance and exit of groundhog holes in the ground – You will notice raised, multiple mounds of dirt in your yard. – Raised ridges crisscrossing your yard will be easily visible How Do You Tell If You Have A Groundhog Active In Your Yard?Ĭommon signs of damage that indicate groundhogs are active in your yard include: Thus, it is always the best option to contact an experienced pest and wildlife specialist who’s got the tools and knowledge to deal with your groundhog problem. Once they invade your yard, it can be really hard to eliminate them on your own because they are very aggressive. In addition, they carry ticks and fleas which can pass diseases like Powassan and Lyme to pets and humans. They can also cause serious structural damage through burrowing. These rodents usually dig burrows in grassy areas and eat through gardens causing a lot of damage. Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are aggressive animals that are hard to get rid of when they invade your property. Have you just spotted a groundhog in your yard and wondering if you should worry? The short answer is YES, you should.
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