- What Brings Groundhogs to DC Residential Areas?
Groundhogs are attracted to properties with abundant vegetation and easily accessible shelter options, such as decks, sheds, and crawlspaces. In the winter, they burrow deeper underground to survive colder temperatures, making them a nuisance for homeowners in DC. Their burrowing activity can destabilize structures and landscaping.
- Winter Burrowing Problems: Structural Damage from Groundhogs
Groundhogs dig extensive burrows that weaken foundations and increase soil erosion.
- Damaged foundations: If they burrow near your home, they can undermine the stability of walls and decks.
- Flooding risk: Their burrows can interfere with drainage systems, causing flooding after heavy rain or snowmelt.
- Signs That Groundhogs Are Burrowing in Your Yard
Look for:
- Large dirt mounds near burrow entrances.
- Worn paths in your lawn.
- Damage to vegetables or ornamental plants in your garden.
- Scratching and scurrying sounds near porches or crawlspaces.
- EJ’s Groundhog Trapping and Removal Services
EJ’s Pest Control utilizes humane and effective removal methods:
- Inspection: Identifying burrows and groundhog activity on your property.
- Trapping: Safe and humane live traps compliant with DC wildlife control regulations.
- Burrow sealing: Filling burrows with durable materials like concrete or gravel to prevent re-entry.
- Repair and Restoration After Groundhog Infestations
Groundhog activity can leave damage requiring repairs:
- Lawn grading to restore even landscaping.
- Repairs to weakened decks or foundations.
- Installing barriers to prevent future burrowing activity.
- Long-Term Deterrents to Keep Groundhogs Out
Prevent future groundhog problems with these tips:
- Install hardware cloth fencing buried 12 inches below ground around decks and sheds.
- Eliminate potential food sources by maintaining your garden.
- Use strong-smelling repellents like garlic or predator urine near known burrow areas.
- Why Choose EJ’s Pest Control for Wildlife Removal in DC?
EJ’s Pest Control combines humane wildlife management with expert repair and prevention services to ensure your property remains free of groundhog damage. Learn more about effective groundhog control from WildlifeHelp.org here.
