If you’ve noticed large holes near your shed, garden beds that look freshly tilled (by something other than you), or sudden dips in your lawn, you might be dealing with a groundhog. Also known as woodchucks, these chunky rodents may seem harmless at first glance—but they can quickly become a major headache for homeowners.

Where Are Groundhogs Hiding?

Groundhogs are expert diggers. Their burrows often go unnoticed until you trip over one or spot a tunnel entrance near your home’s foundation, shed, or deck. These underground dens can extend 20–30 feet, with multiple exits. They often build near areas that provide both cover and access to food—like overgrown brush, rock piles, or garden edges. And yes, they’ll absolutely dig under fences and foundations if left unchecked.

What Do Groundhogs Eat?

Your garden is basically a buffet for groundhogs. They’re herbivores, with a big appetite for vegetables, grasses, flowers, and fruits. If you’ve found your beans, tomatoes, or leafy greens mysteriously devoured, a groundhog might be to blame. Unlike raccoons, they’re not into trash or pet food—just fresh, green goodies.

How to Tell If a Groundhog is on Your Property

Look for large, crescent-shaped holes about 10–12 inches wide, often surrounded by mounds of dirt. You may also notice chewed plants, collapsed garden rows, or tracks near burrow entrances. Groundhogs are usually active during the day, especially early morning and late afternoon, so you might spot one waddling across your lawn.

Groundhog Mating: When to Expect Baby Groundhogs

Groundhogs mate in early spring, and by mid- to late spring, females give birth to 2–6 young. By summer, the babies begin venturing out of the burrow. This is often when new tunneling activity ramps up. If you’re noticing more holes than usual in late spring or early summer, a family may have moved in.

How to Prevent Groundhog Damage

The key to groundhog prevention is making your yard less appealing and harder to access. Start by sealing off potential den sites—install buried fencing around sheds, porches, and decks to block digging. Remove brush piles and tall weeds that offer cover. If you have a garden, consider using fencing that extends at least 12 inches underground and stands 3–4 feet tall above ground (they’re better climbers than people think).

While groundhogs aren’t attracted to trash like raccoons, they’re very food-motivated. Harvest your garden frequently, use strong-smelling repellents, and remove fallen fruits or vegetables. Motion-activated sprinklers can help deter them from foraging.

If you already have a burrow system in your yard, it’s best to call a professional. Trapping and exclusion are often necessary, especially if the burrow is near your home’s foundation or a structure.

Conclusion

Groundhogs may look cute, but they can do real damage with their digging and feeding habits. A single burrow can undermine foundations, flood basements, and destroy carefully tended gardens. By spotting the signs early, securing your property, and acting quickly, you can avoid costly repairs—and keep your yard groundhog-free. If you’re unsure how to handle an active burrow, don’t go it alone—call in a wildlife control expert to help you safely and effectively evict these unwanted guests.