How to Get Rid of Groundhogs & Keep Them Away

Trap the groundhogs and remove the pest. One gardening blogger declares to have had many run ins with problem groundhogs and states that trapping is the best option. Havahart traps are metal traps that are perfect for the live capture of groundhogs. Use a bait from your garden. The best option is to use the plant the offending groundhog is most fond of. Use the plant that seems to be the quickest to disappear. Place the trap as close to their den as possible. This reduces the risk of trapping another animal by mistake. Relocate the groundhog far enough away, so it does not return. A good four or five mile drive should ensure the guilty animal does not return.

Fence your garden and cut the groundhog supply. Groundhogs build their dens near a source of food. They may have chosen your yard or under your garage thanks to your lovely garden. Cutting off their food supply by fencing in the garden could lead to a woodchuck exodus or trail of tears. U.S. Animal control suggests three-to-four feet chicken wire fences buried one foot into the ground. They also recommend cutting back grasses as this denies them habitat as they prefer cover to hide in.

Apply predator urine to areas where groundhogs frequent. Jamie Conrad tells us that groundhogs will vacate the area if they smell predator urine. Bobcat urine and other urine can be purchased online or at gardening stores. Dog urine will also work. If you have a dog take him out and have him go on trees and bushes where woodchucks have been spotted. Leave your dog on a chain in the backyard for extra deterrent.

Kill the groundhogs using chemicals, pellet guns or regular guns. This is the least humane method of course and really not necessary since steps one through three or a combination of them should get the job done.

Hire a professional and outsource the problem. Anywhere there are problem groundhogs there are groundhog removal specialists. If you do not want the hassle of trapping or killing a woodchuck then call in someone who will do the job for you. They will consult you on how you want the groundhog removed. Most prefer the live trapping method.