Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are a common wildlife issue for homeowners throughout Columbus and central Ohio. With a landscape that blends neighborhoods, green spaces, gardens, and wooded edges, the area provides ideal conditions for these burrowing animals. While groundhogs are a natural part of Ohio’s ecosystem, their presence on residential property can quickly lead to noticeable damage if left unaddressed.
Groundhog Prevalence in Columbus, Ohio
Columbus’s mix of open lawns, wooded edges, gardens, and agricultural land creates ideal habitat for groundhogs. These herbivores thrive where there is abundant vegetation, soft soil for burrowing, and relatively few predators. In central Ohio, it’s not uncommon for residents to encounter groundhogs in backyards, parks, vacant lots, and near foundations.
Groundhogs spend much of the year above ground feeding and preparing for hibernation, making sightings especially frequent from early spring through late fall.
Key Signs of Groundhog Activity
Homeowners should look out for the following indicators of groundhog presence on their property:
1. Burrows and Entrances
Groundhog burrows are often the most obvious sign. These tunnels are typically:
- 4–6 inches in diameter
- Located near foundations, garden edges, patios, or sheds
- Surrounded by freshly excavated soil
You may find multiple holes connected by a network of tunnels.
2. Garden Damage
Groundhogs love tender vegetation and can wreak havoc on:
- Vegetable gardens
- Flower beds
- Landscaping plants
They often chew stems and leaves and may leave plants trimmed at a clean, angled cut.
3. Tracks and Droppings
Look for:
- Footprints resembling small raccoon prints with visible toes
- Pellet-like droppings near burrow entrances or feeding areas
4. Sightings and Noises
Groundhogs are diurnal (active during the day). You may see them:
- Foraging for food
- Sunbathing on rocks or stumps
- Whistling as a warning call when startled
What Damage Groundhogs Can Cause
While groundhogs may seem harmless, their digging and feeding habits can result in real property concerns. Extensive tunneling can weaken soil beneath patios, walkways, and foundations, increasing the risk of structural issues or tripping hazards. In gardens, groundhogs can quickly destroy crops and landscaping, undoing weeks or months of work.
Burrows can also attract other wildlife, such as skunks or snakes, which may move into abandoned tunnels and create additional problems for homeowners.
Steps to Take If You Suspect a Groundhog Problem
If you believe a groundhog has taken up residence on your property, start by confirming activity and identifying burrow locations. Reducing attractants, such as accessible garden plants, fallen fruits, or dense ground cover, can make your yard less appealing. Properly installed fencing can help protect gardens, but it must be buried below ground to prevent digging underneath.
Homeowners can:
- Install fencing around gardens (wire mesh buried at least 12″ deep to prevent tunneling)
- Remove food sources like fallen fruits or accessible compost
- Trim dense vegetation to reduce appealing cover
Note: Groundhogs are strong diggers; typical garden fencing alone often isn’t enough without proper burial depth.
When to Contact a Professional Wildlife Control Company
Groundhogs can be persistent and difficult to remove on your own. It’s time to give us a call if:
✔ You see active burrows near your home or foundation
✔ Garden damage is increasing despite DIY deterrents
✔ You’re unsure how to safely and legally remove or exclude wildlife
Our professional team will:
- Perform a site inspection
- Identify entry and burrow sites
- Provide humane removal and exclusion
- Offer solutions to prevent future groundhog activity
Don’t let groundhogs compromise your property or peace of mind. Contact Critter Control of Columbus for a fix to your groundhog, or other critter, problem.