The groundhog also known as woodchuck and whistle pig—is one of Missouri's most widely distributed mammals. The groundhog’s feeding and burrowing habits—such as in hay or crop fields, home gardens, orchards, and nurseries—can result in conflicts with property owners. Burrows and mounds can be hazardous to farm equipment or horses and riders, and burrows can undermine concrete building foundations, porches, and driveways.
Control
The Wildlife Code of Missouri classifies the groundhog as a game mammal that may be taken during the prescribed hunting season (see current regulations for details). Taking groundhogs during the prescribed season can help control their numbers. Cage-type traps are allowed as a hunting method. The Code also specifies that you may shoot or trap damage-causing groundhogs out-of-season without a permit.
Exclusion
Fencing can reduce damage, but groundhogs are good climbers and can easily scale wire fences unless precautions are taken. Fences should be at least 3 feet high and made of heavy poultry wire or 2-inch mesh woven wire. Bending the top 15 inches of the wire fence outward at a 45-degree angle will prevent groundhogs from climbing over the fence. To prevent burrowing under the fence, bury the lower edge 10 to 12 inches below ground, or bend the lower edge in an L-shaped angle leading outward and buried 1 to 2 inches below ground. Prevent groundhogs from burrowing under concrete slabs by burying L-shaped wire mesh along the edge. An electric wire used in conjunction with fencing can enhance effectiveness. Place an electric wire 4 to 5 inches off the ground and the same distance outside the fence. When connected to a UL-approved fence charger, the electric wire will prevent climbing and burrowing. In some instances, an electric wire alone, placed 4 to 5 inches above the ground, can deter groundhogs from entering gardens. Vegetation in the vicinity of any electric fence should be removed regularly to prevent the system from shorting.
Trapping
Traps are effective. Cage-type traps should be clean and set during daylight hours. Close or disable the trap at night to prevent non-target catches. Place the trap close to, but not blocking, the burrow entrance. Covering or camouflaging the trap is not necessary. Bait with a slice of apple, cantaloupe, or other fruit. Broccoli or cauliflower also work well. Fresh bait works best, so replace daily.
For Ground hog Control in Washington Mo, Union Mo, New Haven Mo, Marthasville Mo, Augusta Mo, Villa Ridge Mo, Gerald Mo, Franklin County, Warren, St Charles And Gasconade you can trust the professionals at D & R Pest Control, LLC to help you deal with Groundhogs effectively and completely. Call us today at (636) 239-4998 to schedule an appointment for Groundhogs and all your pest control needs. For more information on Groundhogs, see link below:
https://mdc.mo.gov/wildlife/nuisance-problem-species/nuisance-native-species/groundhog-control