Woodchucks (6626)

Woodchucks, also known as groundhogs or whistle pigs, are one of Pennsylvania’s most widely distributed mammals. These vegetarians often cause problems in agricultural or suburban areas because they eat vegetable crops, damage the bark of trees or shrubs, or because their burrows cause damage to tractors, lawn equipment, horses, or foundations. Their favorite foods include soybeans, beans, peas, carrot tops, tomatoes, alfalfa, clover, and grass. Woodchucks are actually good climbers and are occasionally seen in lower tree branches.

If you are troubled by woodchucks in your vegetation, the most permanent control method is by fencing with heavy poultry wire or two-inch woven mesh wire. Be sure the fence is at least three feet high and that at least another 12 inches is buried under ground. The last six inches of the part buried should be bent at an L-shape leading away from the area you are trying to protect. For extra measure, you might even want to add an electric wire four or five inches off the ground and the same distance outside the fence.

Woodchucks are classified as game animals in Pennsylvania. Therefore, they are protected, unless they are damaging personal property. If damage is occurring, a property owner can use lawful means to control the woodchucks, including trapping, fumigating, and shooting. A wildlife pest control operator may be your best bet in controlling the problem.

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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