If you have a groundhog living on your property, chances are you’re not too happy about it. Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, can cause extensive damage to your yard and garden. They’re also capable of carrying a number of diseases that can be harmful to humans and pets alike. The good news is that there are a few ways to get rid of groundhogs naturally, without resorting to harmful chemicals or lethal traps. Read on to learn more.
Epsom Salt
One way to get rid of groundhogs naturally is to sprinkle Epsom salt around the perimeter of your property. Groundhogs are attracted to the salt, which they will eat. However, ingesting too much Epsom salt can be fatal for these animals. So, if you do choose this method, be sure to monitor the groundhogs closely and replenish the salt as needed.
Commercial Repellents
There are a number of commercial repellents available that are designed to keep groundhogs away from your property. These products typically contain either predator urine or capsaicin, which is the active ingredient in chili peppers. Both of these substances are unpleasant for groundhogs and they’ll typically stay away from areas where they’re present. Just be sure to follow the directions on the product label carefully so that you don’t end up harming any other animals or plants in your yard.
Sprinklers
You can also deter groundhogs from entering your property by installing a sprinkler system.Groundhogs don’t like getting wet and they’ll avoid areas where they know they’ll get soaked by a sprinkler. Just be sure to test the sprinklers before you turn them on so that you don’t accidentally soak any innocent bystanders!
Row Covers and Fencing
If you have an extensive garden or landscape, you may want to consider using row covers or fencingto keep groundhogs out. Row covers are simply pieces of fabric that can be placed over top of plants to protect them from pests. Fencing is a more permanent solution, but it can be expensive and time-consuming to install. Both row covers and fencing will need to be monitored regularly so that groundhogs don’t find a way in.
Kitty Litter
Another way to get rid of groundhogs naturally is to sprinkle used kitty litter around your property. Groundhogs have a strong sense of smell and they’re repelled by the smell of cat urine. Used kitty litter is also effective at deterring other pests, such as deer, rabbits, and squirrels.
Live Traps and Relocation
Finally, if you really want to get rid of a groundhog problem once and for all, you can try live trapping followed by relocation. This method involves setting up a live trap baited with food in an area where groundhogs are known to frequent. Once the animal is caught in the trap, it can then be released into a more suitable habitat far away from your home or business. Just be sure to check your local laws before taking this course of action, as some states have restrictions on relocating wildlife.
