How to Trap Groundhogs/Woodchucks in Live Animal Traps

If your vegetable garden looks like a demolition crew went through, you could have a groundhog problem. It's time for you to take action and remove the problem. Trapping and relocating wildlife humanely doesn't have to cause injuries to the critter, and it helps to ensure the happiness of everyone involved.

Discover the Characteristics of Your Garden Opponent

Getting to know your antagonist is important. Groundhogs always live close to the underground burrows that they excavate for their hideouts. Their hibernation lairs provide undisturbed home spaces where they can sleep through the winter cold; however, the warming days of spring bring the creatures out to look for your food supply.

They never wander far from their sanctuary; ultimately, their expeditions take place in the morning hours and late afternoon. Their food raids leave devastation behind.

Eliminate Stress With A Humane Trap

Steel-jaw traps are no longer popular with many professional trappers. Modern wildlife management technicians use humane cages to capture destructive pests and easily remove them to greener pastures. A 32-42 inch rust-resistant steel cage will safely trap and hold a groundhog or woodchuck until it is relocated.

Cages with smaller mesh openings help to ensure against escape or stolen bait. Traps with smoothed internal edges protect the animal from injuries. Choose an outside trigger, so it can't be easily damaged by trapped wildlife. Solid door and handle guards are safety extras that<strong></strong> protect hands during transport.

When handling occupied traps, always cover the cage first with a tarp or other suitable cover to alleviate unnecessary stress on the confined animal. Take the time to use appropriate gear like durable gloves to help protect the fingers.

Choose Enticing Bait

Herbaceous green plants and almost anything that grows in your garden are favorites of this animal. Sweet corn is on the menu and lettuce. No fragrant cantaloupe patch is safe with this critter. Place some of the goodies behind the trigger plate and wait for success.

Check the Trap Often

This may be one of the most important issues of trapping wildlife. Select an appropriate location wisely. An early morning shade that is cool and comforting can become hot afternoon sun in a few hours.

After you are confident of a satisfactory spot, place the trap within 10 feet of the den's entrance. Since groundhogs are naturally suspicious animals, some additional treatment of the new trap is beneficial.

Spray water on the trap and roll it in the dirt to help camouflage the new steel. Remember to check for absence of debris that could lock the trigger plate. Conceal with twigs, leaves and brush. Now you're ready for action.

Discourage Future Animals From Relocating to the Old Dugout

Fill the burrow with gravel or soil. Taking the time to secure wire mesh over the entry is another measure that can deter a new population of groundhogs.

Now that you know more about the safety and ease of the humane small animal trap, your property can soon be free of interlopers that steal and pillage. You deserve a pest-free homestead.