What Animal Is Burrowing In My Yard? Identifying Unwanted Guests
Trying to figure out what animal is burrowing in your yard? It could be anything from a harmless groundhog to a destructive vole; identifying the culprit is the first step towards effective, humane management.
Understanding what animal is burrowing in your yard? is crucial for taking appropriate action. Burrows can disrupt landscaping, damage structures, and even pose health risks. Let’s delve into the process of identifying these subterranean architects and explore strategies for coexisting peacefully or managing their presence.
Understanding the Culprit: A Burrowing Bestiary
Before you can address the issue, you need to know who your tenant is. Several animals commonly burrow in yards, each with its own characteristic burrow and habits.
- Groundhogs (Woodchucks): These are large rodents known for their extensive burrows with multiple entrances. Entrances are typically large and obvious, often with a mound of dirt nearby.
- Voles: These small, mouse-like rodents create shallow tunnels, often just beneath the surface of the grass. Their presence is usually indicated by trails of dead grass.
- Moles: Moles are insectivores, not rodents. They create raised ridges in your lawn as they tunnel in search of insects and earthworms. Molehills are also a telltale sign.
- Chipmunks: Chipmunks dig small, clean burrows, often near fences, walls, or trees. They’re much smaller than groundhogs and their burrows are accordingly smaller.
- Rats: Rats will burrow in a variety of locations, often near structures or food sources. Their burrows are typically smaller and more discreet than those of groundhogs.
- Skunks: Skunks may dig shallow burrows, often under sheds or decks, in search of grubs and insects. Their presence is often accompanied by a distinctive odor.
- Gophers: Gophers, common in some regions, create extensive burrow systems with multiple entrances. Their hallmark is the crescent-shaped mounds of dirt they leave behind.
Identifying Burrows: Key Characteristics
Paying close attention to the burrow itself offers crucial clues. Consider these factors:
- Size: A large, obvious hole suggests a groundhog or possibly a skunk. Smaller, less noticeable holes point to voles, chipmunks, or rats.
- Shape: The shape of the burrow entrance can also be indicative. Groundhog burrows are often rounded, while vole tunnels are more like surface runways.
- Location: Where is the burrow located? Near a garden? Under a deck? Along a fence? This can narrow down the possibilities.
- Evidence: Are there tracks, droppings, or other signs of the animal nearby? Examine the area closely for additional clues.
- Mounds: Are there mounds of dirt near the entrance? Moles and gophers leave characteristic mounds.
Humane Management Strategies
Once you’ve identified the animal, you can choose an appropriate management strategy. Remember, humane solutions are always the best option.
- Exclusion: Fencing, netting, and barriers can prevent animals from accessing your yard or specific areas.
- Habitat Modification: Removing food sources, such as fallen fruit or birdseed, can make your yard less attractive.
- Repellents: Commercial repellents or homemade remedies (like castor oil for moles) can discourage animals from burrowing.
- Live Trapping (Relocation): Live trapping and relocation should only be considered as a last resort and may require permits. Consider the animal’s wellbeing, and local regulations.
- Professional Assistance: If you’re unsure how to proceed, consult a wildlife removal expert.
Common Mistakes in Identifying Burrowers
Many people misidentify the animals burrowing in their yard, leading to ineffective or even harmful management strategies.
- Assuming All Mounds Are Molehills: Gophers also create mounds, which are often larger and more crescent-shaped than molehills.
- Ignoring Evidence: Failing to look for tracks, droppings, or other signs can lead to a misdiagnosis.
- Using Inhumane Traps: Avoid using traps that can cause unnecessary suffering or death to the animal.
- Relocating Animals Improperly: Relocating animals to unfamiliar areas can be detrimental to their survival.
- Ignoring Local Regulations: Be sure to comply with all local laws and regulations regarding wildlife management.
Using Trapping Methods Ethically
If trapping and relocation are your only option, consider these points to ensure an ethical and humane outcome.
- Size of Trap: Choose the appropriate trap size for the specific animal that’s burrowing in your yard.
- Bait: Use an appropriate bait. For instance, peanut butter mixed with oats can attract rodents.
- Placement: Place traps in areas where you’ve noticed activity, close to burrow entrances.
- Monitoring: Check traps regularly, at least once or twice daily, to avoid unnecessary suffering.
- Relocation: When relocating, choose a suitable habitat that is away from human activity and has available food and water sources.
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, dealing with burrowing animals is best left to the professionals. Consider contacting a wildlife removal expert if:
- You are unsure what animal is burrowing in your yard.
- You are uncomfortable handling the animal yourself.
- The animal is causing significant damage.
- You suspect the animal may be sick or injured.
- You are unable to resolve the problem on your own.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I tell the difference between a vole burrow and a mole burrow?
Vole burrows are typically shallow tunnels that run just beneath the surface of the grass, creating noticeable trails of dead vegetation. Mole burrows, on the other hand, create raised ridges in the lawn as they tunnel underground in search of food and will also sometimes create volcano-shaped molehills.
Is it safe to fill in an animal burrow?
Filling in a burrow without being certain the animal has left can be inhumane. It’s best to observe the burrow for several days to confirm that it is no longer in use. You can place some loose soil or leaves over the entrance and check to see if it is disturbed.
What are the dangers of having animals burrowing in my yard?
Burrowing animals can damage your lawn and landscaping, undermine structures, and potentially spread diseases or parasites. Some animals, such as skunks, can also spray if they feel threatened.
How can I keep animals from burrowing under my deck or shed?
Exclusion is the best approach. Install a wire mesh barrier around the base of the deck or shed, extending at least 12 inches below ground level to prevent animals from digging underneath.
Are there any plants that deter burrowing animals?
Certain plants, like daffodils and marigolds, are said to deter some burrowing animals. However, their effectiveness is not always guaranteed. It’s best to combine it with exclusion methods.
What is the best way to get rid of moles?
The most effective way to control moles is to eliminate their food source – grubs and other soil insects. Apply an appropriate insecticide to your lawn, following all label instructions carefully. You can also use traps specifically designed for moles.
Are burrowing animals protected by law?
Some burrowing animals are protected by law, so it’s important to check with your local wildlife agency before taking any action. Many states require permits for trapping or relocating certain species. Always check local regulations.
Will a dog deter burrowing animals?
A dog may deter some burrowing animals, but it’s not always a reliable solution. Some animals may simply learn to avoid the dog, while others may be more persistent.
How do I deal with a groundhog burrow in my garden?
Fencing is the best way to protect your garden from groundhogs. Install a fence that is at least 3 feet high and extends 12 inches below ground level. You can also use netting to cover vulnerable plants.
What do I do if I find baby animals in a burrow?
If you find baby animals in a burrow, do not disturb them. The mother is likely nearby and will return to care for them. If you are concerned about their safety, contact a wildlife rehabilitator.
Can I use poison to get rid of burrowing animals?
Using poison is not recommended as it can be inhumane and pose a risk to other animals, including pets and children. There are also strict legal regulations regarding the use of poisons.
How do I identify the animal burrowing based on droppings found near the hole?
Different animals have different droppings. For example, vole droppings are small and rice-shaped, while groundhog droppings are larger and more cylindrical. Rat droppings are dark brown and taper at the ends. Comparing the droppings to images online or consulting a wildlife expert can help you identify the animal.