On February 2nd, Groundhogs make their debut to determine whether it’s time to pack up your winter coats or if the snow will continue. This American tradition brings joy to some and frustration to those hoping for warmer weather. Despite their small stature and their own holiday, they can bring homeowners far more problems than six more weeks of winter. Many would prefer to skip the fame in search of food or a new home inside your yard or garden, destroying vegetation and creating intricate underground tunnels across your property.

Groundhogs are large ground mammals belonging to a group called Marmots, a large set burrowers that call North America and the Central and Eastern United States their home. They are also the largest member of the squirrel family, weighing between 5 and 13 pounds. There are 14 different species of Marmots, but only one type of groundhog, making these animals genuinely unique. Though they are one of a kind, they are referred to by many different nicknames like “Land Beaver,” “Whistlepig,” and the well-known “Woodchuck.” The names Woodchuck and Groundhog are often interchangeable.

When it comes to your lawn or well-kept gardens, the creature can do much more than see their shadow. As burrowers, they create elaborate tunnel systems underneath your yard to build shelter, bathrooms, and a mode of transportation. Some tunnels are so impressive that they can move up to 700 pounds of dirt before their construction is complete. This misplaced dirt can cause severe damage to yards and vegetation on your property.

They are not only impressive engineers but are notorious herbivores. Their appetite for crops has made these rodents a significant pest for gardeners and farmers, as they eat throughout the spring and summer in preparation for hibernation during the winter. 

Groundhogs are solitary creatures who prefer to avoid other animals (including you), making it difficult to determine whether you have a problem. Fortunately, there are noticeable signs that you may have a woodchuck as an unwanted guest. Loose soil or areas of grass that are unstable can be a telltale sign of tunnels. These unstable areas can be felt when walking across your yard or identified by misplaced grass or dirt.

Another sign can be found inside your garden. With diets focused mainly on grasses, fruits, and vegetables, you may find small nibbles missing from your carrots and zucchini. Tiny bite marks or hollowed out vegetables are an obvious sign that your garden may have turned into an all you can eat buffet for your visiting groundhog. 

Like other wildlife, woodchucks are experts at staying out of sight. This can make them notoriously difficult to remove without professional experience, and DIY removals may end up doing more harm than good. At Black Knight Pest Services, we have been providing effective and responsible pest control services for over 20 years. You’ve worked hard to take care of your yard, protect it by hiring the experienced team at Black Knight Pest Services.