Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks or whistle pigs, can be quite a nuisance for homeowners and gardeners in Southern Maine. These burrowing rodents can cause significant damage to gardens, lawns, and even building foundations. If you're facing a groundhog problem, don't worry! Critter Control of Southern Maine is here to help. In this article, we'll discuss the steps to take when dealing with groundhogs and how our expert services can provide lasting solutions.
Step 1: Identify the Problem
The first step in dealing with groundhogs is to correctly identify their presence. Look for these telltale signs:
- Burrows: Groundhogs dig extensive tunnels, with the entrance holes measuring about 10-12 inches in diameter.
- Mounds: You may find piles of dirt around the burrow entrance, indicating recent digging activity.
- Damage: Groundhogs are notorious for raiding gardens and consuming crops, so look for chewed vegetation or evidence of digging.
Step 2: Preventative Measures
Once you've confirmed the presence of groundhogs, implement preventative measures to reduce the likelihood of future infestations:
- Install Fencing: Erect a fence around your garden to discourage groundhogs from entering. Make sure it extends at least a foot below ground level to prevent burrowing. A fence height of 3-4 feet should be sufficient to deter them from climbing over.
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Eliminate Food Sources: Remove any easily accessible food sources, such as fallen fruit or vegetables in your garden. This will make your property less appealing to groundhogs.
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Remove Cover: Groundhogs prefer areas with ample cover, so keep your lawn well-maintained and trim overgrown vegetation. Eliminate hiding spots by removing piles of wood, rocks, or debris from your property.
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Apply Repellents: Use commercially available groundhog repellents, which typically contain ingredients such as capsaicin or castor oil. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application.
Step 3: Trapping and Removal
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If preventative measures aren't enough, it's time to consider trapping and removing the groundhogs:
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Live Trapping: A humane option for groundhog removal is live trapping. Set traps near active burrows and bait them with enticing food such as fresh vegetables or fruit. Remember to check traps daily and release the captured groundhogs at least five miles from your property, in accordance with local regulations.
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Professional Assistance: If you're unsure about trapping groundhogs yourself or are dealing with a severe infestation, it's best to call in the professionals. Critter Control of Southern Maine has years of experience in handling groundhog removal and can provide effective, humane solutions tailored to your situation.
Step 4: Damage Repair and Prevention
After the groundhogs have been removed, it's essential to repair any damage and prevent future infestations:
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Fill Burrows: Locate all groundhog burrows on your property and fill them in with soil or gravel. This will prevent other animals from moving in and causing further damage.
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Install L-Shaped Barriers: To prevent groundhogs from digging under your fence or foundation, install an L-shaped barrier made of galvanized hardware cloth or similar material. Bury the bottom edge at least 12 inches below ground level and extend it outward for 2-3 feet.
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Maintain Preventative Measures: Continue employing the preventative measures discussed earlier, such as maintaining fences and eliminating food sources. Regular maintenance will minimize the likelihood of future groundhog issues.
Dealing with groundhogs can be challenging, but with the right approach and assistance from Critter Control of Southern Maine, you can successfully resolve your groundhog problem. By following these steps and taking advantage of our expert services, you can protect your property and enjoy a groundhog-free environment. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Critter Control of Southern Maine today.