How to Deter Groundhogs From Digging Under Buildings
Groundhogs are a ground-dwelling rodent that are rarely a problem unless they invade your garden or begin digging under a building. Groundhogs dig extensive tunnels, and the possibility exists that by tunneling under a house or outbuilding they can cause the building to subside or crack the foundations. Preventing them from digging can save you money and trouble in the future.
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Things You`ll Need
- Shovel
- Hardware cloth
- Tin snips
- Staple gun
- Staples
Video: Groundhogs are digging under my shed. How do I get these boogers?
Dig a 12-inch-deep trench all the way around the building. Staple hardware cloth over any above-ground gaps or openings.
Be sure the groundhog is not at home if you block off an existing hole. Bend the hardware cloth at a 90-degree angle a foot below ground level. Secure it to the building with the staples every 4 inches.
Video: Groundhog inside the Garden - Upgrading Fence - ground hog in garden
Re-bury the trench and the hardware cloth. The metal will prevent animals from digging under the building.
Sprinkle olive oil around any existing holes. The smell will repel the groundhogs and drive them to finding a new home.
Tips & Warnings
- Used cat litter and ammonia are also effective repellents against groundhogs.
- Close holes either in very early spring or after mid-July when the young are not in the tunnels.
- Groundhogs can carry Tularemia. Do not handle carcasses with bare hands.