Groundhogs can be a real problem if they’re burrowing under your deck, chewing through your garden, or weakening your shed’s foundation. The good news? You can trap them safely and legally with the right tools and techniques. This guide will walk you through how to trap a groundhog step-by-step and recommend the best traps to get the job done right.
Can You Trap a Groundhog Yourself?
Yes, you can trap a groundhog using a humane live trap with the right bait and setup. It’s a safe and effective way to remove them from your property, but always check your local laws before trapping or relocating wildlife. Some areas require permits or restrict relocation.
If you’re unsure about the legal side or want to compare costs for professional help, use this pest control calculator to get an accurate price estimate based on your location and pest type.
Best Traps for Groundhogs (Top 3 Picks)
Not all traps are built the same. For groundhogs, size, strength, and safety matter. Here are three of the best groundhog traps that professionals and homeowners recommend:
1. Havahart 1084 Live Animal Trap
- Size: 32″ x 10″ x 12″
- Type: Single-door trap
- Why it works: Sturdy, humane, and easy to set. The size is perfect for medium-sized pests like groundhogs.
2. Tru-Catch 36D Live Animal Trap
- Size: 36″ x 12″ x 14″
- Type: Single-door gravity trap
- Why it works: It’s used by many animal control agencies. Smooth edges prevent injury, and it has a quiet closing mechanism to avoid startling the animal.
3. Havahart 1045 Two-Door Trap
- Size: 36″ x 10″ x 12″
- Type: Dual-door trap
- Why it works: Lets groundhogs enter from either side, increasing your success rate. Works well in paths between burrow entrances and gardens.
All three traps are available online or at hardware stores and are great options for homeowners dealing with a groundhog problem.
How to Trap a Groundhog: Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to safely and effectively trap a groundhog on your property.
Step 1: Choose a Location
Place the trap near the main burrow entrance or in areas where you’ve seen activity. You’ll usually find entrances around decks, sheds, fence lines, or near your garden.
Step 2: Select the Right Bait
Groundhogs love fresh fruits and vegetables. Cantaloupe is the most effective bait, especially the rind. Other good options include:
- Sweet corn
- Lettuce
- Apples
- Peaches
Place bait behind the trigger plate to ensure the groundhog steps fully inside the trap.
Step 3: Set and Camouflage the Trap
Wear gloves to avoid transferring your scent. Set the trap’s trigger and place light brush or grass around the edges to blend it into the surroundings, but keep the trap entrance clear.
Step 4: Check the Trap Frequently
Check the trap every 4 to 6 hours, or sooner. Never leave a trapped groundhog exposed for long. Cover the trap with a towel once the animal is caught to reduce stress before release or calling pest control.
Step 5: Relocate or Call a Professional
Only relocate the animal if local law allows it. Most areas require releasing groundhogs at least 5–10 miles from your property. If you’re unsure or relocation is illegal, contact animal control or a licensed pest control company.
Use this pest control calculator to find out how much groundhog removal would cost in your area.
Trapping Tips for Better Success
Improve your chances of catching a groundhog with these extra tips:
- Sprinkle a trail of bait leading to the trap entrance
- Anchor the trap to prevent tipping or movement
- Place the trap on a flat, even surface
- Keep pets and children away from the trap area
Sometimes it takes a day or two before the groundhog enters. Be patient and don’t move the trap too often.
What Not to Do When Trapping a Groundhog
Avoid these common mistakes that can ruin your chances of success:
- Using traps that are too small
- Handling bait with bare hands (adds human scent)
- Placing the trap too far from burrow entrances
- Using spoiled or dry bait
Even the right trap won’t work if it’s in the wrong spot or the animal doesn’t trust the setup.
What If You Catch the Wrong Animal?
You might catch a raccoon, opossum, or even a neighbor’s cat. This is why it’s important to check the trap often and release non-target animals safely.
To avoid this:
- Use bait specific to groundhogs like cantaloupe
- Place the trap directly near groundhog activity
- Trap early in the day when groundhogs are most active
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried trapping with no success or the groundhog is under your home’s foundation, call a licensed pest control expert. They have experience with stubborn groundhogs, advanced traps, and relocation procedures.
Not sure how much professional help would cost? Use this free pest control calculator to find out instantly.
Conclusion: You Can Trap Groundhogs Safely and Effectively
Trapping a groundhog isn’t complicated if you have the right trap, the right bait, and follow smart steps. Just be sure to check local laws before relocating the animal. And remember, persistence pays off—some traps work best after a day or two of exposure.
If DIY trapping feels overwhelming or hasn’t worked, get a custom quote here and let the pros handle it. Your yard will thank you—and your garden will grow in peace again.
Leave a Reply