How to Get Rid of Groundhogs (Woodchucks) in Virginia

how to get rid of groundhogs and woodchucks

Contact Us at (804) 729-0046 or toll-free at (888) 824-7383

“How do I get rid of a groundhog?” is one of the most common questions we hear. Groundhogs are also called woodchucks or whistle pigs. They are heavy diggers that can damage yards, gardens, walkways, and structures—especially when they burrow under decks, sheds, porches, and foundations.

Groundhog help is available statewide throughout most of Virginia.

Common Groundhog Problems in Virginia

Groundhog complaints often include:

  • Burrows next to homes and foundations
  • Groundhogs living under a deck, porch, or shed
  • Gardens and flower beds being eaten in spring and summer
  • Sidewalks or patios settling due to tunneling
  • HVAC/ductwork issues when burrows reach crawlspaces
  • Digging under garages, barns, and outbuildings
  • Livestock injuries from stepping into holes
  • Equipment damage from burrow mounds in fields

Before You Start: Virginia Law on Relocation

Many people want to “catch and move” a groundhog. Relocating wildlife is illegal in Virginia in most situations. If you trap a groundhog yourself, do not transport it to another property or release it elsewhere. Call a licensed professional to discuss legal options.

The Best DIY Ways to Get Rid of Groundhogs

Option 1) Exclude them from what they want (best for gardens)

If the main issue is garden damage, fencing is often the fastest non-lethal fix.

Garden fence basics:

  • Fence height: at least 3 feet
  • Add dig protection: bury the bottom 12–24 inches, or install an outward “apron”
  • Secure the bottom edge tightly with no gaps

Option 2) Reduce cover and denning areas (prevention)

Groundhogs prefer den entrances near cover.

Do these:

  • Keep grass cut short
  • Trim thick shrubs and brush near the ground
  • Remove debris piles, stacked lumber, and rock piles
  • Remove fallen fruit and garden scraps
  • Fill inactive holes only after you’re sure they’re not active

Option 3) Trapping (effective, but do it safely and legally)

If you choose to trap, do it carefully. Groundhogs can overheat quickly.

Basic trapping guidelines:

  1. Use a sturdy live trap large enough for a groundhog (many people use a raccoon-sized trap).
  2. Place the trap near the active burrow entrance or main travel route.
  3. Use bait they already want (common examples include certain fruits/vegetables).
  4. Set traps in shade and check them frequently.
  5. Wear gloves and keep the trap away from your body once an animal is inside.

Important: Because relocation is illegal, do not transport a trapped groundhog. If you’re not comfortable with the legal and humane handling steps, call a pro.

What NOT to Do

Do not poison groundhogs

Poisoning creates safety risks for pets, children, and non-target wildlife, and often leads to odor problems if the animal dies in a burrow or wall void.

Don’t rely on “miracle repellents”

Most repellents provide inconsistent results and usually don’t solve an active burrow problem.

How to Keep Groundhogs from Coming Back

Once the groundhog is gone, prevention is key.

Exclusion barrier for decks, sheds, and porches

If a groundhog is denning under a structure, install a proper barrier:

  • Use heavy-gauge wire mesh/hardware cloth
  • Extend it down 12 inches or more
  • Add an outward underground “apron” to stop digging at the base

This is one of the most reliable long-term solutions.

For long-term structural prevention, see Virginia Animal Exclusion & Damage Repairs.

When to Call a Professional

Call a pro if:

  • The burrow is under a deck/porch/shed/foundation
  • You have multiple burrows or repeat activity
  • You want a legal, humane solution without DIY risk
  • You suspect crawlspace/HVAC involvement
  • You need exclusion work to prevent repeat digging

We provide fast, professional groundhog trapping and exclusion statewide throughout most of Virginia → https://virginia-wildlife-removal.com/groundhog-removal-virginia/].

FAQ: How to Get Rid of Groundhogs in Virginia

Are groundhogs and woodchucks the same animal?

Yes. “Groundhog” and “woodchuck” are the same animal. “Whistle pig” is another nickname.

Why are groundhogs digging under my deck or shed?

Those areas provide shelter and safety. Once a den is established, exclusion is usually needed to prevent repeat use.

What’s the fastest solution for garden damage?

A properly installed garden fence with dig protection is often the quickest fix.

Can I relocate a groundhog in Virginia?

Relocation is illegal. If you trapped one, do not transport it—call a licensed professional.

Do you provide groundhog services statewide?

Yes. We provide groundhog trapping, removal, and exclusion statewide 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 Help in Virginia

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Contact Us at (804) 729-0046 or toll-free at (888) 824-7383