From Forecast to Frustration: When Groundhogs Take Over Spring

Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, become a significant nuisance in the spring for a variety of reasons, and pest and wildlife control companies often deal with the damage they cause. Here's why they become problematic during this time and the kind of destruction they can cause:

Burrowing and Structural Damage
• Burrows: Groundhogs are notorious for digging deep burrows, especially in the spring when they are emerging from hibernation. These burrows are often dug near structures such as homes, sheds, or gardens. Their tunnels can weaken foundations, cause erosion, and pose risks to property owners. In some cases, burrows can even collapse, creating holes in yards or sidewalks, which can lead to accidents.
• Vegetation Destruction: Groundhogs are herbivores, and they are particularly active in the spring when plants are beginning to bloom. They eat grasses, vegetables, flowers, and shrubs, causing significant damage to gardens and landscaping. This behavior makes them a common problem for homeowners, farmers, and businesses that rely on ornamental plants and crops.
Crop Damage
• For farmers, groundhogs can be a major issue in the spring when crops are planted. They will often destroy newly sprouted plants. This not only causes direct damage but can also result in financial loss for farmers who rely on crops.
Spread of Disease
• Groundhogs can be carriers of various diseases, including tularemia and lyme disease, both of which can spread to humans, pets, and other animals through bites, fleas, or contact with contaminated feces or urine. The presence of groundhogs around residential or agricultural areas poses a public health risk, prompting pest and wildlife control companies to act quickly.
Increased Activity and Socialization
• In the spring, groundhogs are more active because it's their mating season, and this behavior can lead to more visible and widespread activity. This can be alarming to homeowners who may suddenly notice burrows, plant destruction, and other damage after the animals have emerged from hibernation.


Groundhogs can quickly become a nuisance in the spring due to their burrowing, crop destruction, and the potential health risks they pose. Their activities can lead to significant damage to both private property and local ecosystems, making them a priority for pest and wildlife control services. Effective pest control requires understanding their behavior and utilizing safe, humane methods to mitigate the issues they cause.