Quck answer
If you’re wondering whether you have moles or groundhogs in your yard, there are a few key differences to look out for. Moles are small, burrowing mammals with cylindrical bodies and paddle-like front feet. They create raised tunnels and mounds of dirt in your yard. On the other hand, groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are larger rodents with stout bodies and short legs. They dig burrows with multiple entrances and create large mounds of dirt. Additionally, groundhogs are known for their ability to climb and eat vegetation. By observing these physical characteristics and behaviors, you can determine whether you have moles or groundhogs in your yard.
Few things can be as frustrating for a homeowner as discovering a labyrinth of holes and tunnels in a well-kept lawn. While the culprit is likely to be either a mole or a groundhog, also known as a woodchuck, it’s important to correctly identify the pest in order to prevent further damage to your property. The most challenging part of this process is identifying the enemy, but there are clues that can help you make a determination.
Moles and Groundhogs: Physical Characteristics
The most common mole found in home gardens is the eastern mole, which is between 5 1/2 and 8 inches long and typically inhabits the eastern and central regions of the United States. The fur of an eastern mole is charcoal gray with white or orange patches on the underside. The animal’s front feet are large, webbed, and equipped with claws for digging, while its snout is short and its nostrils are prominent. Moles do have eyes, but they are hidden under their fur. They have no external ears and a short, hairless tail.
Groundhogs, on the other hand, are much larger, with a head and body that measure between 16 and 20 inches in length and a furry tail that is 4 to 7 inches long. They have grayish-brown fur, short legs, and a stout body, as well as front feet with long, curved claws that are adapted for digging burrows. Groundhogs are found throughout much of the United States, ranging from northern Alaska to southern Virginia and from Idaho to Alabama.
The Daily Lives of Moles and Groundhogs
Moles spend most of their lives underground and rarely come to the surface. They dig long tunnels from their dens while searching for insects such as white grubs and earthworms, but they also eat some plant material, such as tubers and seeds. Moles are active year-round.
Groundhogs typically emerge from their burrows to feed in the early morning and evening hours. They are herbivores that eat a variety of vegetables and grasses. Groundhogs can be active during daylight hours and are sometimes observed basking in the sun on warm days. They communicate through distinctive sounds, including whistles, squeals, clicks, and barks. Groundhogs hibernate during the winter months.
Recognizing Mole and Groundhog Burrows
Moles dig tunnels that are about 1 1/2 inches in diameter and 5 to 8 inches below the surface of the soil. The tunnels connect to underground dens or chambers, and the excavated soil is often thrown out, creating small mounds of dirt or molehills that are usually 4 to 8 inches high. The mole tunnels can be identified by ridges in the surface of the soil that can be followed.
The main entrance to a groundhog burrow is typically 10 to 12 inches wide and has a mound of dirt in front of it. These burrows are often located near trees, building foundations, or fences. Secondary entrances may be present that do not have thrown-out dirt mounds. Groundhog tunnels are as deep as 5 feet and range in length from 8 to 66 feet. The tunnels are too deep to be followed like mole tunnels.
Assessing the Damage
Moles eat garden pests like white grubs, but many people dislike the unsightly raised tunnels and molehills they create in well-manicured lawns. They may also damage plant roots as they dig tunnels. Voles and mice often use excavated mole tunnels as passageways and cause damage by eating seeds, roots, and tubers.
Groundhogs can cause harm to lawns and gardens by damaging plants and gnawing on the trunks and stems of trees and shrubs. They are known to eat various garden plants such as beans, peas, and squash. However, any plant damage between November and February is more likely to be caused by deer or rabbits, as groundhogs hibernate during this period. Groundhogs are generally not aggressive and rarely carry rabies, but they will defend themselves if they feel cornered by a dog.
Caution
If a groundhog bites you or a pet, it’s advisable to seek treatment for rabies as a precaution.
Ways to Control Pests
Before attempting to control moles or groundhogs, it’s important to check if they are protected by wildlife protection laws in your area. There are many non-lethal methods available, such as modifying or excluding the habitat. For instance, wire mesh fences that are 24 inches high and buried 12 inches in the ground can protect small areas like seed beds from moles. Groundhogs require a fence at least 3 feet high and buried 2 inches in the ground. Another method is to remove food sources and disrupt burrows and tunnels to discourage activity. You can close off burrow entrances constructed by groundhogs when they’re empty and pack mole tunnels down with a roller.
It’s also useful to consider tolerating the presence of moles or groundhogs. Moles help to aerate the soil and eat lawn pests, while groundhogs are a natural part of the ecosystem and a food source for foxes, hawks, and eagles.
Tip
It’s best to evict groundhogs between July and September and avoid other times of the year as there may be young developing within the burrow.
FAQ
1. How can I tell if I have moles in my yard?
If you have moles in your yard, you will notice a series of raised ridges or mounds of dirt on the surface. These molehills are created as the moles dig tunnels beneath the ground. Additionally, you may see small, volcano-shaped mounds of dirt where the moles have pushed up soil as they burrow. Another sign of mole activity is the presence of holes in the ground, which are entrance and exit points for the moles.
2. What are the signs of groundhogs in my yard?
Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, leave behind several distinct signs in your yard. One of the most noticeable signs is the presence of burrow entrances. Groundhogs dig burrows with multiple entrances, usually near fences or structures. Another sign is the damage they cause to vegetation. Groundhogs are herbivores and will often munch on plants, leaving behind gnawed stems and partially eaten leaves. Lastly, groundhogs may leave droppings near their burrows.
3. Can moles and groundhogs coexist in the same yard?
Yes, it is possible for moles and groundhogs to coexist in the same yard. While they may both be present, they have different habitats and habits. Moles are underground dwellers that primarily feed on insects, worms, and grubs, whereas groundhogs are primarily herbivores that live in burrows. However, it’s important to keep in mind that both moles and groundhogs can cause damage to your yard, so it’s best to address any issues promptly.
4. How can I prevent moles from damaging my yard?
To prevent moles from damaging your yard, you can take several measures. One effective method is to install a barrier made of mesh or hardware cloth underground. This will prevent moles from tunneling into your yard. Another option is to use repellents, such as castor oil-based products, which can make the soil less attractive to moles. Additionally, keeping your yard well-maintained, with regularly mowed grass and minimal thatch, can make it less appealing to moles.
5. What steps can I take to deter groundhogs from my yard?
If you want to deter groundhogs from your yard, there are a few steps you can take. First, you can install a fence around your property to prevent groundhogs from entering. Make sure the fence extends at least 2 feet below ground to prevent them from burrowing underneath. Secondly, removing any potential food sources, such as garden vegetables or fruit trees, can discourage groundhogs from staying in your yard. Lastly, you can try using repellents specifically designed for groundhogs, which emit odors that are unpleasant to them.