Home Remedies to Get Rid of Groundhogs

Groundhog Description

• Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are squirrel family members that dwell in the eastern and northeastern United States as well as southern Canada, British Columbia and eastern and central Alaska. They average at about 16 to 20 inches in length with a tail that is between 4 and 7 inches long. Their eyes, ears and nose are located toward the top of their heads, and their fur is brownish-gray on their chunky bodies. They also feature chisel-like incisor teeth and commonly make their homes in wooded or brushy areas close to open fields and farms. Fence rows, stone walls, roadsides, building foundations and tree bases are common nesting areas for groundhogs. These animals feed on grasses, legumes and vegetables, including clover, carrot tops, soybeans, beans, peas and alfalfa.

Exclusion

• One home remedy for getting rid of groundhogs is through exclusion. Note that groundhogs are nimble climbers and can scale wire fences. Use fencing that is at least 3 feet high and made of either 2-inch mesh-woven wire or heavy poultry wire. Prevent groundhogs from burrowing under fencing by burying the fencing at least 10 to 12 inches underground. Use fencing wherever groundhogs seem to frequent, such as under your home or around the garden. Fencing also helps keep out pets and rodents.

Scare Tactics

• Another home remedy for getting rid of groundhogs is using assorted scare tactics, such as scarecrows and decoys. Set up decoys of groundhog predators around your home and yard, such as foxes, wolves, dogs, coyotes or bobcats. Spray the decoys with the urine of the particular predator if possible, which can be found at most hunting stores; this will further help deter groundhogs. Move scarecrows and decoys frequently to mimic a high level of predator activity on your property. Pet dogs may also be of service in helping you scare off groundhogs.

Trapping and Relocation

• A final home remedy for ridding groundhogs from your life is trapping and relocation. Call your state wildlife department to determine which traps are acceptable for groundhog removal in your state, as some traps, such as steel traps, may not be used in areas frequented by livestock or pets. Cage traps are another option and can be baited with apple slices, lettuce and carrots. Change the bait each day. Place traps around high-traffic groundhog areas and burrow lanes, and call your state wildlife department about relocation guidelines.