Got a groundhog problem that’s out of control? Sometimes, when all other methods fail, removal becomes the only solution. Groundhogs (also called woodchucks) can destroy gardens, damage building foundations, and create dangerous burrows that weaken the structure of your land.
This guide explains the legal, safe, and most effective ways to kill groundhogs if necessary. You’ll also learn when it’s better to hire a professional and how much you might expect to spend depending on the method.
Is It Legal to Kill Groundhogs?
Yes, in most areas it is legal to kill groundhogs on your property, but there are rules. Each state or province has its own laws about nuisance wildlife control. Many allow you to kill them if they’re damaging your property, but you may need a permit or to follow humane guidelines.
Always check with your local wildlife agency first. In some places, using certain traps, poisons, or firearms might be restricted.
Best Ways to Kill Groundhogs
The most effective methods to kill a groundhog include:
- Shooting
- Lethal trapping
- Fumigation (Gas bombs)
- Poisoning (in very specific situations)
Let’s break each method down so you know exactly what to expect.
1. Shooting
Shooting is fast and direct, but comes with serious responsibility.
- Only legal in rural or less populated areas
- Best done with a small-caliber rifle like a .22
- Must follow local gun laws and safety rules
- Must ensure a clean, humane kill
This method is often used by farmers or property owners in open spaces. It’s not safe for suburban or urban environments.
2. Lethal Trapping
Lethal traps kill the animal instantly or quickly when set properly. These traps include:
- Body-grip traps (like the Conibear 220): Designed to kill quickly upon contact
- Spring-loaded jaw traps: Can be risky and require careful placement
Traps must be set at burrow entrances and camouflaged. Check them frequently and dispose of the animal safely.
Warning: Always follow trap size and placement laws in your area.
3. Fumigation (Gas Bombs)
This method involves placing gas cartridges into an active burrow and sealing it to kill the animal inside.
- Buy fumigation cartridges labeled for groundhogs
- Locate all burrow entrances and plug all but one
- Insert the lit cartridge into the hole and quickly seal it
This works best in spring or early summer when the groundhog hasn’t made multiple escape holes. It’s considered humane when done properly.
4. Poison (Rarely Recommended)
Some rodenticides can kill groundhogs, but poisoning is not recommended for several reasons:
- Slow and painful death
- Risk to pets, children, and other wildlife
- Often illegal without a license
Only licensed pest control companies should consider using poison. If you want to explore that route, check this pest control cost calculator to estimate what a professional would charge.
When Should You Kill a Groundhog?
You should only consider lethal options when:
- Non-lethal methods like fencing or repellent have failed
- Burrowing is causing structural damage
- The animal poses a serious health risk or threat to pets
Tip: Killing one groundhog may not solve your problem if there’s a population nearby. You’ll need to secure the area afterward to prevent new animals from moving in.
What to Do After You Kill a Groundhog
Once a groundhog has been killed, you must:
- Dispose of the body safely (bury, bag and trash, or call animal control)
- Fill in the burrow to prevent new groundhogs from using it
- Install an underground fence to keep others out permanently
Don’t skip this step. The smell of an empty burrow or leftover scent can attract more groundhogs, raccoons, or skunks.
DIY or Hire a Professional?
If you’re uncomfortable with handling traps or fumigation, it’s better to hire a professional. Pest control experts know how to kill and remove groundhogs legally and humanely.
Want to know how much you’d pay? Use this free pest control calculator to estimate your cost based on pest type and property size.
Alternatives to Killing
If you’re not ready to kill the animal, try these humane options first:
- Install an L-shaped underground fence
- Use live traps and relocate (where legal)
- Apply castor oil-based repellents or motion sprinklers
- Remove food sources like fallen fruit, gardens, or pet food
Prevention is always better than removal. After killing a groundhog, if you don’t seal off your land, new ones will return.
Conclusion: Know Your Options Before You Act
Killing groundhogs should always be a last resort. But if damage is serious and other methods fail, lethal action may be necessary. Shooting, trapping, and fumigation are the most effective methods when done legally and humanely.
Not sure what it’ll cost or how to start? Try this pest control price calculator and see what solutions make sense for your situation.
Take back control of your property—safely, responsibly, and for good.
Leave a Reply