How to Get Rid of Groundhogs Under House: Effective Strategies for Homeowners
Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, can be a real nuisance when they decide to take up residence under your house. These furry creatures are not only destructive but can also attract other pests and pose safety risks. If you find yourself dealing with a groundhog problem under your house, it’s important to take action promptly. Here are some effective strategies to help you get rid of groundhogs and prevent them from returning.
Identify the Groundhog’s Entry Point
The first step in getting rid of groundhogs under your house is to identify their entry point. Groundhogs typically dig burrows or tunnels, so you’ll need to locate the opening where they are entering. Check the perimeter of your house, as well as any garden beds or landscaping, for signs of burrowing activity. Once you’ve found the entry point, you can take steps to seal it and prevent the groundhog from returning.
Seal the Entry Point
Once you’ve identified the groundhog’s entry point, it’s time to seal it. Use a wire mesh or hardware cloth to cover the opening, ensuring that it extends several inches below the ground and is securely fastened. This will prevent the groundhog from re-entering and also deter other animals from taking over the burrow. Be sure to check for any other potential entry points and seal them as well.
Remove Attractants
Groundhogs are attracted to areas with abundant food and water sources. To discourage them from returning, it’s important to remove any attractants near your house. This includes keeping your garden beds neatly trimmed, storing birdseed and pet food in sealed containers, and ensuring that garbage cans are securely closed. By eliminating these attractants, you reduce the groundhog’s incentive to stay around.
Use Repellents and Traps
In addition to sealing the entry point and removing attractants, you can use repellents and traps to further discourage groundhogs. There are various commercial repellents available that can be applied to the burrow entrance or around the perimeter of your property. These repellents often contain predator urine or other strong scents that deter groundhogs. As for traps, you can use live traps or humane kill traps. Be sure to follow local regulations and guidelines when using traps, and release the groundhog far from your property to minimize the risk of it returning.
Professional Help
If you’ve tried these methods and the groundhogs continue to persist, it may be time to seek professional help. Wildlife removal experts have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to effectively remove groundhogs and prevent future infestations. They can also provide advice on long-term solutions to keep groundhogs out of your property.
Preventative Measures
To prevent future groundhog problems, it’s important to take some preventative measures. Keep your landscaping well-maintained, as overgrown vegetation can provide cover for groundhogs. Consider installing a fence around your property, as this can deter them from entering. Additionally, be aware of any wildlife that may be nesting near your house, as groundhogs are often attracted to these areas.
In conclusion, getting rid of groundhogs under your house requires a combination of identifying their entry point, sealing it, removing attractants, using repellents and traps, and seeking professional help if needed. By taking these steps, you can effectively rid your property of groundhogs and prevent future infestations.
