To be honest, dealing with a groundhog under your porch can be quite a nuisance. I speak from personal experience because I had to tackle this exact problem last summer. Those little critters can be stubborn and persistent, but with the right approach, you can successfully get rid of them. So, let me share with you the steps I took to evict the groundhog from under my porch.
First and foremost, I did some research and found that trapping and removing the groundhog is the most effective method. I went to my local hardware store and purchased a live trap designed specifically for catching groundhogs. They are quite affordable and readily available. If you don’t want to buy one, you can also consider renting a trap or even hiring a professional trapper.
Next, I had to choose the best location to set up the trap. Groundhogs tend to have multiple entrances to their dens, so you need to identify the main entrance. Look for signs of digging and burrowing around your porch or shed. Once you have located the entrance, place the trap near it. Make sure to anchor the trap securely to prevent the groundhog from dragging it away.
Now, the bait is a crucial part of the trapping process. Groundhogs are herbivores, so they are attracted to fresh fruits and vegetables. I found that using apples and carrots as bait worked really well. I placed some bait inside the trap and also created a trail leading into the trap using small pieces of the bait. This entices the groundhog to enter the trap to get to the main bait.
After setting up the trap, it’s important to check it regularly, preferably every few hours. Groundhogs can become stressed if left in the trap for too long, so it’s best to relocate them as soon as possible. Once you have caught the groundhog, handle the trap with care, wearing thick gloves to protect yourself from potential bites or scratches. Release the groundhog in a suitable location far away from your property, preferably in a wooded area or open field with no nearby buildings.
In my case, I had to repeat the trapping process a couple of times before I finally caught the groundhog. These critters can be smart and cautious, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t succeed right away. Persistence is key.
Once you have successfully removed the groundhog, it’s important to take preventive measures to avoid future infestations. Secure any potential entry points under your porch or shed by using wire mesh or hardware cloth. Trim back any overgrown vegetation that may provide cover for groundhogs. And finally, make sure your yard is free of tempting food sources, such as fallen fruits or vegetables.
So, that’s how I got rid of the groundhog under my porch. It required some time, effort, and patience, but in the end, it was definitely worth it. I hope these tips help you in dealing with your own groundhog problem. Good luck!