Contact Us at (804) 729-0046 or toll-free at (888) 824-7383
Groundhogs (also called woodchucks or “whistle pigs”) are powerful diggers that can damage lawns, gardens, fences, and structures. If you have a groundhog burrow under a deck, porch, shed, garage slab, barn, or foundation, we can help. People sometimes confuse them with gophers or hedgehogs.
We provide statewide groundhog removal and trapping throughout Virginia, plus exclusion and repair services to help keep them from coming back.
Signs You Have a Groundhog Problem
Common signs include:
- A large burrow opening with a fresh dirt mound nearby
- Multiple entrances (one obvious, others hidden for escape)
- Damage to gardens (beans, peas, melons, lettuce, etc.)
- Chewed plants and low shrubs near the ground
- Digging under sheds, decks, porches, and crawlspace edges
- Visible groundhog activity in early morning or late afternoon
Why Groundhogs Cause So Much Damage
Groundhogs build burrow systems that can extend dozens of feet with multiple chambers. That can lead to:
- Trip hazards for people, horses, and livestock
- Undermined slabs, walkways, and foundation edges
- Ongoing lawn and garden destruction
- Crawlspace and HVAC/duct issues when burrows reach under structures
- Chewing damage (wood and other materials)
The Best Way to Get Rid of Groundhogs
For most properties, the most effective groundhog control approach is:
1) Professional trapping (fastest way to stop damage)
We place traps strategically near active burrows and travel routes to solve the problem efficiently.
2) Exclusion and prevention (the long-term fix)
After removal, we help prevent new groundhogs by recommending or providing:
- Dig-proof barriers under decks, sheds, and porches
- Closing gaps and reinforcing weak spots at structure edges
- Site cleanup (brush/cover reduction) near denning areas
- Burrow management guidance once activity stops
For homeowner prevention and DIY guidance, see our How to Get Rid of Groundhogs (Woodchucks) in Virginia page.
Groundhog Exclusion and Fencing Options
If groundhogs are targeting gardens or repeatedly digging under structures, exclusion is often the best investment.
Garden fencing basics (what works)
- Fence height: at least 3 feet
- Prevent digging: extend fencing 12–24 inches underground or use an outward apron
- Secure the bottom edge tightly (no gaps)
Deck/porch/shed exclusion (dig-proof barrier)
A properly installed dig-proof barrier along the perimeter helps stop burrowing under structures. Learn more about animal exclusion and wildlife damage repair.
Important Virginia Law Note on Relocation
Many people ask about “catch and move.” Relocating wildlife is illegal in Virginia in most situations. If you trap a groundhog yourself, do not attempt to transport or release it elsewhere. Call us and we can advise the safest, legal next step.
Groundhog Damage We Commonly See in Virginia
- Digging in yards and around landscaping beds
- Burrows under decks, porches, sheds, barns, and garages
- Garden and crop loss
- Undermined walkways and slabs
- Crawlspace and HVAC/duct issues when burrows extend under structures
FAQ: Groundhog (Woodchuck) Removal in Virginia
Yes. “Groundhog” and “woodchuck” are two names for the same animal. Some people also call them “whistle pigs.”
No. Groundhogs are diurnal, meaning they’re most active during the day—often early morning and late afternoon.
Yes. They can climb, even though they spend most of their time on or under the ground.
Professional trapping is usually the quickest way to stop active damage, followed by exclusion so the problem doesn’t return.
Most store-bought repellents provide inconsistent results. The most reliable solution is removal + exclusion/prevention.
Yes. We provide statewide Virginia wildlife removal and pest control services throughout most of Virginia.
Service Area: Statewide Virginia
We provide service across the Central Virginia, Northern Virginia, Tidewater / Hampton Roads, and the Shenandoah Valley / Southwest Virginia regions.
For the full list of the cities, counties and towns where we provide service, visit:
If you don’t see your city listed, contact us—we often serve nearby areas and can confirm availability quickly.
Contact Us for Groundhog Removal in Virginia
Please complete our simple contact form below:
Contact Us at (804) 729-0046 or toll-free at (888) 824-7383