WOODCHUCK/GROUNDHOG (Marinota morax)

The groundhog is a member of the squirrel family. It has a compact, chunky body with shortl legs, short tail and brown fur. It’s front feet contain long claws which suit the animal well in digging, which is what the groundhog does. It digs several underground tunnels with several entrances. This is where the groundhog sets up its abode. The groundhog is about 16-27 inches in length(tail included), with an average weight of 5-10 pounds.

Woodchucks are among the few mammals that enter a state of true hibernation in Nova Scotia, ranging from late October until March. At this point, they emerge in search of a mate, where a litter of 2-6(average of 4) is born a month later. By summer, the young strike out on their own.

Early morning and evening are the most active times for groundhog. The damage they cause is two-fold. First, their underground tunnels can cause an eyesore to well manicured lawns. The entrances to these tunnels can be marked by 10-12 inch holes with a mound of dirt piled on the entrance. The second reason they conflict with humans is that they are not shy in helping themselves to garden crops or expensive flower gardens and ornamental bushes.

In Nova Scotia, groundhogs are a non-protected species. This means that permits are no required to lethally solve this problem. However, there are several non-lethal approaches that can be used to live catch and relocate groundhogs.

To solve your groundhog problem, do not hesitate to call Mike at 497-2582.

According to Department of Natural Resources record keeping, Advanced Wildlife Control does more Woodchuck removals than any other company in N.S. - a testament to our professionalism and reasonable prices.

It is your responsibility to ensure that the company you hire has the necessary permit(s). Most, if not all pest control/exterminator companies do not have permits. Check first and save yourself possible headaches in the future.