All About Pests: Everything You Need to Know About Groundhogs and Voles

July 23, 2024

Understanding the Impact of Groundhogs and Voles and How to Manage Them

Groundhogs and voles may seem like harmless critters, but they can cause significant damage to lawns and landscapes. Understanding their behaviors and the extent of their impact on your property is crucial for effective management. This article covers everything you need to know about groundhogs and voles, the damage they can inflict, and how to prevent and control their presence.


Groundhogs: Characteristics and Impact

  1. Identification: Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are large rodents with stout bodies, short legs, and bushy tails. They typically weigh between 4 to 14 pounds and can be 16 to 27 inches long.
  2. Habitat and Behavior: Groundhogs dig extensive burrow systems for shelter, with multiple entrances and chambers. They are primarily active during the day and hibernate during the winter.
  3. Damage to Property: 
  • Burrowing: Groundhogs’ burrows can undermine the stability of structures such as decks, patios, and foundations. Their extensive digging can also damage underground utilities and irrigation systems. 
  • Feeding: Groundhogs feed on various plants, including vegetables, flowers, and ornamental shrubs. They can quickly decimate a garden, causing significant financial and aesthetic damage.


Voles: Characteristics and Impact

  1. Identification: Voles, also known as meadow mice, are small rodents with compact bodies, short legs, and short tails. They typically measure 4 to 8 inches in length and weigh around 1 to 2 ounces.
  2. Habitat and Behavior: Voles create shallow burrow systems and surface runways in grassy areas. They are active year-round and can reproduce rapidly, leading to large populations.
  3. Damage to Property: 
  • Burrowing and Tunneling: Voles’ burrowing and tunnelling can disrupt lawns and gardens, creating unsightly runways and bare patches.
  • Feeding: Voles feed on various plants, including grasses, bulbs, and tree bark. They can wrap trees and shrubs, causing severe damage or even death to the plants.

Preventing and Managing Groundhog and Vole Infestations

  1. Exclusion and Barriers:
  • Install fencing around gardens and vulnerable areas to prevent access. Bury the fence at least 12 inches underground to deter burrowing.
  • Use hardware cloth or wire mesh to protect the base of decks, sheds, and other structures.

2. Habitat Modification:

  • Remove potential food sources by keeping your garden clean and harvesting crops promptly.
  • Reduce hiding places by keeping grass trimmed and removing debris, such as woodpiles and brush.

3. Repellents and Traps:

  • Apply repellents to deter groundhogs and voles from entering your property. Products like castor oil-based repellents can be effective.
  • Set traps in burrow entrances and along runways to capture and remove pests. Be sure to check local regulations regarding trapping and relocation.

4. Professional Pest Control:

  • For severe infestations or persistent problems, consider hiring a professional lawn care or pest control service.


If left unchecked, groundhogs and voles can cause extensive damage to your property and lawn. By understanding their behaviors and implementing preventive measures, you can protect your landscape from these destructive pests. Whether through exclusion, habitat modification, or professional pest control services, there are effective strategies to manage and prevent groundhog and vole infestations.


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