General characteristics:
* Entrance: The entrance is typically a round hole about 8-10 inches wide.
* Location: Groundhog holes are often found in sunny areas with soft, loose soil. They might be near trees, bushes, or rock piles.
* Mounds: Groundhogs often create mounds of dirt near the entrance, which might be small and subtle or large and noticeable.
* Multiple entrances: Some groundhog burrows have multiple entrances, which can be connected by tunnels.
* Tracks: Look for groundhog tracks leading to and from the burrow. They have large, blunt claws, leaving distinct prints.
Signs of activity:
* Freshly dug mounds: If you see fresh dirt around the entrance, it's a good sign the groundhog is active.
* Scent: Groundhogs have a strong, musky odor. If you detect this scent near the hole, it means the groundhog is using the burrow.
* Grass clipping: Groundhogs often clip the grass around their burrows to create a clear view of their surroundings.
Different types of holes:
* Active burrows: Active burrows will have signs of fresh dirt, tracks, and possibly grass clipping.
* Abandoned burrows: Abandoned burrows might have collapsed entrances or overgrown vegetation.
* Summer burrows: These are shallower burrows typically used during the warmer months.
* Winter burrows: Winter burrows are deeper and more elaborate, with chambers for sleeping and nesting.
Note: While groundhog holes can be a sign of their presence, it's important to be cautious. Groundhogs can be aggressive if they feel threatened, and they might carry diseases.
If you have concerns about groundhogs on your property, it's best to contact a professional wildlife control company for advice and assistance.