There are millions of results when searching the Internet for “cute groundhogs” – these images and photos mostly consist of groundhogs eating or sleeping in their natural habitat. While these animals look like the adorable and slightly larger cousin to the squirrels, groundhogs can prove dangers to both humans and pets.
Destructive
As with most pests, a groundhogs first instinct is to feed and burrow. A groundhogs’ predominate mission is to stay alive, which they achieve by eating and finding shelter.
Groundhogs are known for their destructive nature in their attempt to find shelter. By chewing and gnawing, groundhogs are able to burrow a hole or tunnel into the ground for habitation.
If groundhogs are not removed, they can cause serious damage while burrowing, including weakening building foundations or chewing through wires and pipes. These damages could result in serious harm to any humans or animals that are exposed to the damaged areas.
Another potential threat from groundhogs burrowing are the holes and tunnels themselves. If a groundhog digs a hole in your yard without your knowledge, you might trip over the hole, or worse, step into the hole and injure your ankle.
Aggressive
Groundhogs are usually passive until provoked, at which point their aggressive nature can pose a threat to both humans and domestic animals.
If a groundhog feels threatened by a human, especially if they feel as though their food, shelter, or babies are on the line, then groundhogs will bite or scratch the supposed threat. If a homeowner accidentally comes near or steps on a burrow, the groundhog will feel cornered and respond with aggression.
While it is rare, groundhogs coming in contact with humans should be avoided at all costs. Groundhogs are capable of carrying other harmful pests and diseases, such as fleas, ticks, and rabies.
This can be especially dangerous to domestic pets on the property. Animals are naturally curious and will investigate any new smells or holes on their property. If your pet is territorial, this might prompt a dangerous conformation between groundhog and pet.
Predator and Prey
Since groundhogs are relatively smaller creatures, they are considered prey by a variety of larger predators. These predators include hawks, foxes, coyotes, badgers, and so many more. If you leave your groundhog problem unchecked, you are essentially opening the door to much more dangerous animals.
Have A Groundhog Problem? Call the Experts at Shumaker Animal Control
If you think you have a groundhog problem on your property, call the experts at Shumaker Animal Control to deal with the problem for you. Our experienced team will take care of the problem in a timely manner, ensuring that your home and pets are not in any danger.
At Shumaker Animal Control, we are a family-owned business who cares about the safety of you and your family but also about the well-being of the animals themselves. All of our trapping and control methods are humane, as we never try to hurt the angry or scared animal.
Call us at 443-854-8072, visit our website or fill out our contact form for more information.
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