Ever walked through your yard and spotted a deep hole surrounded by a mound of dirt? You might be looking at a groundhog hole. These openings are more than just a sign of a backyard visitor—they can be a warning that bigger problems are digging under your property.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to recognize a groundhog hole, what damage it can cause, and what you can do to stop it before things get worse.
What Does a Groundhog Hole Look Like?
A groundhog hole is a large entrance, typically 10 to 12 inches wide, with a fan-shaped pile of loose soil at the opening. These holes lead into deep underground burrows, which can stretch 20 to 30 feet long with multiple chambers and exits.
Key signs of a groundhog hole:
- A wide, round entrance—often clean and smooth-edged
- Fresh dirt mounded outside in a half-circle pattern
- Multiple holes connected by underground tunnels
- Located near fences, sheds, gardens, or foundations
If you’re not sure what kind of burrow it is, groundhog holes are larger than those of rabbits, skunks, or chipmunks—and often have visible trails leading to food sources like a garden.
Where Do Groundhogs Dig Their Holes?
Groundhogs dig their holes in quiet, grassy areas close to food and shelter. You’ll often find them along the edge of wooded areas, open fields, or under man-made structures like decks and porches.
Common locations include:
- Under sheds or patios
- Beside garden beds
- Next to foundations or crawl spaces
- At the edge of forests or open yards
These animals pick spots that offer both quick access to food and safety from predators. That makes your backyard a perfect place—unless you stop them early.
Why Are Groundhog Holes a Problem?
Groundhog holes weaken soil, create tripping hazards, and can damage your home’s foundation. What seems like a simple hole can lead to thousands of dollars in structural damage if ignored.
Here’s what these burrows can cause:
- Sinkholes or soft ground in your yard
- Cracks in concrete slabs or porches
- Flooding from disrupted water flow
- Damage to garden plants and landscaping
They can even attract other pests. Once a groundhog abandons a burrow, skunks, opossums, or snakes may move in.
If you’re already seeing holes, use our pest control calculator to estimate removal costs before the damage grows worse.
How Deep and Wide Is a Groundhog Burrow?
Groundhog burrows typically run 2 to 5 feet underground and extend 20 to 30 feet in length. They contain multiple tunnels, exits, and chambers for nesting, waste, and even hibernation.
A single groundhog may dig:
- 1 to 2 main entrances
- Several hidden escape holes
- Separate areas for sleeping and food storage
These complex systems are impressive—but very destructive. And once a burrow is built, it can be reused for years unless properly removed and sealed.
How to Get Rid of Groundhog Holes
To get rid of a groundhog hole, you must first remove the animal, then seal the burrow properly to prevent return. Skipping the removal step means the groundhog will dig right back in.
Steps to take:
- Confirm groundhog activity – Look for tracks, droppings, or daytime sightings.
- Use a humane trap – Catch the groundhog safely and release it far from your home.
- Seal the hole – Fill it with dirt and place a heavy object like a cinder block on top.
- Add fencing – Install underground wire mesh around problem areas.
Not comfortable doing this yourself? Use this groundhog removal cost calculator to get a quote in seconds and connect with local experts.
How to Prevent Groundhog Holes
To prevent future groundhog holes, you need to make your property less attractive to them. This means reducing food sources, blocking digging spots, and using repellents.
Effective prevention tips:
- Clean up your yard: Remove fallen fruits and garden waste.
- Use gravel or stone barriers: Line the base of fences and sheds with rocks.
- Install fencing: A buried wire fence at least 12 inches deep can block digging.
- Apply repellents: Natural scents like garlic, ammonia, or castor oil can keep them away.
Sometimes, no matter what you try, they come back. That’s when it’s best to bring in help. Find out your options by using the pest control calculator here.
Should You Be Worried About One Groundhog Hole?
Yes—even one hole can be the start of a much bigger problem. Groundhogs don’t just dig for fun. If they’re in your yard, they’re looking to stay.
Each burrow system can affect large portions of your lawn or foundation. Acting quickly is key to keeping the damage low and your property safe.
Conclusion
Groundhog holes are more than just an eyesore—they’re signs of a complex, damaging burrow system underneath your yard. Spotting one means it’s time to act. The longer you wait, the deeper the problem becomes.
Whether you’re trying to remove a groundhog, seal an old hole, or stop them from coming back, the first step is knowing what you’re dealing with. Take a minute now to check pest control costs near you and decide your next move before groundhogs dig in for good.