groundhog

GROUNDHOGS

FUN FACT

Groundhogs can sleep for extended periods during hibernation, leading to the tradition of Groundhog Day, where their emergence is believed to predict the end of winter.

Schedule Your Groundhog RemovalCall (512) 764-5804

Identification

Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are large rodents found primarily in the eastern and midwestern United States. Active during spring and summer, they emerge from burrows to feed on vegetation, including grasses, clovers, alfalfa, and garden plants. Groundhogs hibernate during the winter, providing a unique seasonal behavior.

Signs of Infestation

  • Burrows: Extensive burrow systems with multiple entrances.
  • Vegetation Damage: Significant damage to gardens, lawns, and flower beds.
  • Sightings: Observing groundhogs in your yard.

Breeding Season

Groundhog breeding occurs in early spring after hibernation. Gestation lasts about a month, resulting in litters of two to five pups. The young are weaned within a couple of months and then establish their own dens.

Ecosystem Role

Despite being pests to gardeners, groundhogs help aerate the soil through burrowing, benefiting plant growth. They also serve as prey for predators like coyotes, foxes, and hawks.

Prevention Strategies

  • Secure Your Garbage: Store garbage in airtight containers.
  • Protect Your Garden: Install fencing or netting around gardens.
  • Remove Attractants: Avoid leaving pet food or birdseed outdoors.
  • Burrow Control: Fill in burrows with dirt and rocks.
  • Repellents: Use commercial repellents, though effectiveness can vary.
  • Professional Help: Contact wildlife removal professionals for significant infestations.

Prickly Pear’s Approach

  1. Inspection: Identify signs of groundhog activity and potential entry points.
  2. Exclusion: Implement barriers and secure garden areas.
  3. Humane Removal: Safely and humanely remove groundhogs from your property.
  4. Follow-Up: Regularly monitor and adjust strategies to keep groundhogs away.

Conclusion

Groundhogs can be a nuisance due to their burrowing and feeding habits, causing significant damage to gardens and crops. Prickly Pear offers professional services to manage groundhog activity and protect your property. If you suspect a groundhog problem, contact us for expert assistance in maintaining a balanced coexistence.