Get rid of food sources, such as garbage or bird feeders, and . Although shooting a nuisance groundhog isnt considered hunting, if shots were fired within the safety zone established by another home (150 yards for firearms), it could result in a citation. The other, less visible entrances are used for escape purposes. Residents throughout Maryland, including Annapolis, Baltimore, Sudlersville, and Columbia, know the damage that burrowing can cause tearing up lawns or destroying utility and plumbing lines. Groundhogs in Michigan are found living under decks, in rock walls, and in hills. Groundhogs are also common throughout Maryland. Taking includes attempting to take wild animals, and assisting . They dig up plants and destroy gardens. Usually, litters consist of 2 to 6 blind, naked and helpless young which take 5 to 6 weeks to wean. Common signs of a groundhog infestation include: Even if you dont see the signs of an infestation, reach out to us and speak to a Maryland groundhog removal specialist if you feel something is off. Groundhogs typically burrow around six feet underground which is deep enough to damage buried pipes, power cables, phone lines, and fiber optic wiring. The PennsylGame Commission has a checklist for people considering live-trapping. Make sure traps are scent-free and flush to the ground, and set in the shade. Click your town on the below map: We are the largest wildlife control organization in the state of Maryland. With a squat body and burrowing claws, it can easily make its way through the dirt and darkness. We set traps near the entrance holes of the colony, use bait as needed, and sanitize your yard to prevent further infestations. . It's an inexpensive and effortless method to preventing structural damage to your home. Because raccoons often carry rabies, they should not be relocated when . Note: if your state does not have relocation designations for wildlife, it is not legal to relocate an animal, even to an open area near your house. They may also burrow under garden sheds or other outdoor structures. The network of tunnels can cover an area underground ranging from 8 to 66 feet and is used for several years. Groundhog took a bite of a tomato If you intend to live trap a groundhog Contact the Nuisance Wildlife Information Line at 1-877-463-6497 for more information. In fact, the odds are heavily stacked against any animal who is dumped in a strange park, woodland or other natural area. They eat grasses, plants, fruits, vegetables, seeds, and other plant matter. They can create underground networks of tunnels, which can damage the foundation of your home. These suggestions are general guidelines only. The Illinois Department of National Resources is tasked with conservation and management of wild species in Illinois. Woodchucks weigh least in spring when they are just out of hibernation and most in fall prior to hibernation. It typically takes no more than two hours, and if you have the time, it is seriously worth going out of your way. However, such restrictions are relaxed if bothersome animals such as groundhogs and other varmints damage personal property. The first thing you'll need to trap a groundhog is a live animal cage trap in a size that is suitable for them. Our local experts look for all the entry points used by the groundhogs, existing damage, and additional issues caused by their presence. JavaScript is required to use content on this page. Only Northeast state nuisance wildlife control operators are permitted to sign up on WildlifeHelp.org at this time. Relocation of nuisance wildlife must be evaluated on a case by case basis. Groundhogs in Michigan are found living under decks, in rock walls, and in hills. They are among the "cute" and furry creatures we are all fans of. They are not aggressive creatures, but there are many good reasons you don't want to see them digging around your yard. As mentioned, groundhogs are burrowing animals, meaning they make their homes underground. We take care of everything at K.P. The size of the denning space and the amount of ventilation will largely influence if such repellents will work. Unlike most mammals that commonly dig for food and shelter, groundhogs are capable of creating underground networks of tunnels. Maryland Wildlife regulations need to be reviewed. 3) Relocate any trapped groundhog at least 10 miles from capture site. Groundhogs are also common throughout Maryland. To report nuisance, injured or sick wildlife, call toll-free in Maryland 1-877-463-6497. Groundhogs prefer to live along forest edges where timbered areas are bordered by open fields. Opossum Removal Opossums are known for giving off a strong odor. We provide fast, safe and humane groundhog removal, groundhog trapping, groundhog capture, groundhog control and groundhog management in Richmond, VA and other areas of Central Virginia. It shouldn't take too long considering the groundhog is living on the property, and the bait is posed as an easy source of food. All killing of nuisance wildlife must be in a. All killing of nuisance wildlife must be in a lawful and humane manner. If you have a groundhog problem, you may want to consider using a live animal cage trap to remove them from your property. This means that, once you manage to trap the groundhog (easier said than done), you can transport him or her to an area recommended by your wildlife game and fisheries department. If the animal is released, it should be relocated at least five miles away from the trap site and in an area of suitable habitat where it is unlikely to cause damage problems. This restriction is necessary to prevent human-assisted spread of this disease and is an important component of the states nuisance wildlife control program. Groundhogs have short, powerful legs with dark brown feet equipped with heavy claws specialized for digging. Know your local firearm discharge laws. Summary of Step-By-Step Instructions: 1) Purchase large cage traps - rated raccoon size, usually about 10" x 12" x 30" or so. Maryland Wildlife trapping regulations need to be reviewed every year. From the small snakes less than a foot long to large, 6-foot-long black rat snakes, Iowa's snakes vary in size to serve the needs of the ecosystem. After an inspection, we give you an estimate detailing the work needed to remove the groundhogs and reinforce the exterior of your home, including: Ask a Maryland groundhog removal specialist at K.P. Again, Striped Skunk also gave exclusive authority of all wildlife trapping regulations back to the National Trap Coalition. Consideration should be given not to relocate groundhogs during spring while the young are in the den or in the autumn immediately before hibernation when there may not be time to establish a winter den. Please select your city or town from the above A nuisance wildlife control permit is needed to relocate them. If youre an avid gardener, and a groundhog decides to sample all of your plants, trapping the animal may become a new hobby for you. Suggestion Striped Skunk (was) most likely a legislative attempt to block Suggestion Falcon, (the statutory initiative which would have placed several restrictions on opossum wildlife trapping within Maryland) by transferring the exclusive authority of all wildlife trapping regulations, including opossum wildlife trapping from the wildlife officer of the trappin' agency to the Natural Resources Wildlife regulatory agency (National Trap Coalition). They are territorial and feel incredibly vulnerable when their burrows are invaded. Wildlife for more information on our trapping and relocation process. Consideration should be given not to relocate groundhogs during spring while the young are in the den or in the autumn immediately before hibernation when there may not be time to establish a winter den. Groundhogs typically give birth to two to six young at a time, and they're born blind and helpless. A landowner permit is needed to trap chipmunks, opossums,porcupines, rabbits,raccoons, skunks,tree squirrelsand woodchucksin Maryland. If you need a wild animal removed from your property, contact a Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO). The best time to trap a groundhog is in the late spring or early summer when they're looking for food. USDA Wildlife Services, Southern Wisconsin: 800-433-0663 (in-state) or 920-324-4514. Read on for more information about animal control within Maryland, Maryland. US Department Agriculture (USDA), Wildlife Services Operators are available from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, except State holidays. Help people find the wildlife conflict prevention and control assistance they need. Nuisance groundhogs can be live-trapped and relocated with permission of the landowner. There is alwaysthe option of hiring a certified Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator, though homeowners might be reluctant to pay for services. Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are a common sight in many parts of the United States. Is it illegal to catch and release groundhogs? They either dont work or provide nothing more than a temporary fix. Relocate Groundhog to Bushy Area with Water Source Apart from relocating groundhog to park, you can also find other busy areas around where they animal will have a feel of wild. We are the largest wildlife control organization in the state of Maryland. Groundhogs will chatter teeth, hiss, squeal or growl when angry. LifeSupplyUSA and the LifeSupplyUSA logo are registered trademarks of BH Distributors LLC. According to Castro in Mother Earth News, groundhogs are delicious and easy to eat. Not recognizing that dependent young may be present when live-trapping and relocating wildlife during the spring and summer often has tragic consequences. Wild animals can bring a sense of wonder and thrill to our lives. Besides, it's just a groundhog, what harm could it actually do? However, it is illegal in Ohio to live trap and relocate a raccoon (or any other rabies vector species; skunk, coyote, bat, fox) to a new area. It features the highest peak in the Rocky Mountains of North America. Go back to the How to get rid of groundhogs home page. These burrows provide homes for other animals like skunks, foxes, opossums and rabbits. Frederick County Animal Removal Services: Frederick (21701, 20702, 21703, 21709), New Market (21774) , Mount Airy (21771), Urbana (21704), Ijamsville (21754), Walkersville (21793), Libertytown (21762), Damascus (20872), and more. It is against the law in Michigan to transport a live wild animal. So, when they've chosen a place they're comfortable with, they typically don't leave on their own unless their food source is removed or you relocate the animal yourself. Their burrows can be as deep as five feet, usually with more than one entrance. When the ground is too hard for burrowing, groundhogs will take shelter where it is dark and quiet. The burrow system is also where they raise their young. A 2004 study of grey squirrels who were live-trapped and relocated from suburban areas to a large forest showed that a staggering 97 percent of the squirrels either soon died or disappeared from their release area. It is observed on the third Monday of January each year. If you find a groundhog on your property with babies, the best thing to do is wait until they're independent before trapping and relocating the mother. Groundhogs are vegetarians and eat plants, grass, flowers, and other vegetation. If the animals are not causing damage or harm, you can be assured that once the young are big enough to be out and about, the birth den will have served its purpose. Groundhogs are herbivors who only eat plants. Links in the sidebar provide more information on what to do with certain nuisance wildlife species. However, this is not something you should allow to go on for very long. I can attest to its precision, as my Marauder always prints dime-sized groups at 50 yards. "It is illegal to move or relocate an animal off your property. In fact, this is the only animal that does not require a permit for relocation. What many people don't realize might be the trappin' agency was reorganized within 1991 and an executive order decreed by Governor John Tipler transferred most of the statutory authority, powers, and, duties of the National Trap Coalition. Their customer service was exceptional and they provided daily follow up until the job was completed. Tennessee Code Annotated 70-4-115 states in part that, the owner of lands may destroy any wild animals, wild birds, or wild fowl when such wild animals, wild birds, or wild fowl are destroying property upon such lands. The short answer is YES, you should.Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are aggressive animals that . We set traps near the entrance holes of the colony, use bait as needed, and sanitize your yard to prevent further infestations. Trapping wildlife, transporting it off your property, and releasing it elsewhere is also illegal in many states, New York included. This is not a humane option, as the animal suffers greatly from your actions. Between March and August, raccoons, skunks, woodchucks and other animals may choose shelter in, around and under a home because they need a safe place to bear and rear their young. Advantage Internet Marketing, to schedule a groundhog removal inspection and estimate with a member of our. It is illegal to destroy or damage a muskrat house or den, a beaver house or a beaver dam. Despite this there might be no free Maryland animal services for wildlife within Maryland County. Information reported to the hotline in the past has helped to eliminate certain fraudulent activities and protect State resources. At least, this might be what Maryland extermination companies think. It will eventually be a foot wide with a mound of soil around it. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (officially Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr., and often referred to shorthand as MLK Day) is a federal holiday in the United States marking the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. In addition to our Maryland groundhog removal services, our team at K.P. Massachusetts law prohibits the capture and relocation of wildlife off your property. If you can find the entry/exit holes, an easy way to determine if the den has been vacated is to loosely cover or fill it with a light material, such as newspaper or insulation. The height of the fence above ground should be at least 3 feet. They can be destructive to your property, and they're a common animal in the United States. How long does it take green tomatoes to ripen off the vine? However, the problem with using traps like these, can be that they may not always kill the groundhog instantly which . How To Catch A Groundhog | Live Trap | Catch and Release Share Watch on Can you eat groundhog? Groundhogs are real experts in digging and can dig deep into the ground and thus gain access to the food they like. Why isnt this approach as humane and effective as it seems and what other options do caring people have when wildlife conflicts arise? Usually, nuisance wildlife that is live-trapped may be relocated. Please select your city or town from the above map or the above list of areas that we service. You may be trying to access this site from a secured browser on the server. In many urban areas, hunting may not be allowed for certain reasons. If you are going to animal capture on Commercial Woodland Act (CFA) land you must apply for most likely a public land documentation that allows animal extermination even though the CFA nuisance wildlife land might be technically private land. Groundhogs are found only in North America, from Canada down to the southern United States. Sometimes, it is necessary to learn how to prevent frequent visits by wildlife to your home or neighborhood. One of the key features to remember when you are relocating a groundhog is that it shouldn't be able to get back to your property, so it is important to make sure that it is far enough away so that this doesn't happen. More:Committee members vow to change votes as tempers flare at Sunday hunting hearing. We're available on the following channels. Although homeowners mean well, wild animals do not settle in quickly to new surroundings, no matter how inviting that habitat may seem to humans. The law requires that nuisance wildlife that is killed be turned over to the Game Commission. Big Game Damage Control. We begin the groundhog removal process with a thorough inspection of your home. Contact your local city or county government to inquire further. The woodchuck, or groundhog, is a common Missouri rodent with short, powerful legs and a medium-long, bushy, and somewhat flattened tail. and then transport them down the road so they can live in someone else's backyard.. Is it bad to have a woodchuck in your yard? Their heartbeat can slow down to 4 or 5 beats per minute (bpm) from 80bpm! What to do with an animal that is behaving strangely or aggressively, Northeast Wildlife Damage Management Cooperative, Northeast Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, signing up for notification when your state is added. Moreover, if the legislature became more involved within annual game management policy revue, there would great difficulty within amending regulations within most likely a timely manner and politics would certainly have more bearing than science. Though groundhogs are not generally aggressive, one might attack if it feels threatened. However, if you find a groundhog on your property and there is no potential that there are babies involved, you can go ahead and trap and relocate the animal right away. They can burrow under homes and gardens, causing significant damage. No guarantee is made that information (or lack of information) associated with a species or control technique is completely accurate or current. This means that, once you manage to trap the groundhog (easier said than done), you can transport him or her to an area recommended by your wildlife game and fisheries department. The Maryland General Assemblys Office of Legislative Audits operates a toll-free fraud hotline to receive allegations of fraud and/or abuse of State government resources. Groundhogs are persistent animals. Despite this there might be no free Maryland animal services for wildlife within Maryland County. Groundhogs . To permanently prevent animals from using those same spots in the future, youll need to seal off any denning areas. I'm not trying to do anything illegal, in fact I'm asking all these questions so I can understand my legal options. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. These holes are more than just an eyesore they can also be a tripping hazard. The Game Commission recommends not relocating rabies vector species because of the increased possibility of spreading disease to a new area. The State of Maryland pledges to provide constituents, businesses, customers, and stakeholders with friendly and courteous, timely and responsive, accurate and consistent, accessible and convenient, and truthful and transparent services. Once the cage has been opened, let the animal run free in his or her new home, and hope you never see it again. Smaller snakes eat worms, slugs and insects, while larger snakes eat small mammals like mice and ground squirrels. Worldwide, wildlife has protection under strict laws and regulations. You will find groundhogs in open plains or digging holes and living underground. Sometimes these burrows can be buried up to 5 feet down and can consist of as much as 45 feet of tunnel segments. It is illegal to touch, move, or possess any part of the nest or eggs without the proper permit. This would be any month outside the timeframe of April through June. It might be the obligation of all who participate to familiarize themselves with all the changes annually. Improper use of a . A Maryland groundhog removal specialist will help reinforce the structure, or we can refer you to a foundation professional when necessary. If you discover a wildlife family nesting in or around your home, the ideal response is patience. They can be destructive to your property, and they're a common animal in the United States. Recommended methods for resolving conflicts with wildlife may depend upon additional aspects of the situation and the species involved. If youre trying to save money, caging it yourself may be the way to go. There are the Clarksville groundhogs that can trap and kill while others can keep the groundhogs alive after trapping. Colorado is also home to the second fastest land mammal in the world, the pronghorn. The phone amount of the land owner allowing access might be required and will be printed on each hunting certificate. The HSUS's tax identification number is 53-0225390. Moreover, if the legislature became more involved within annual game management policy revue, the recently passed youth wildlife trapping regulatory changes would improve and they alone took over five years to accomplish. It might be also most likely a good tool for teaching new wild animal control companies the responsibilities that go with the sport. Please note: Homeowners are strictly prohibited from trapping and shooting wildlife outside regulated seasons, unless the animal has been actively causing property damage or is an obvious threat to public health and safety. Some states have year-round open season against these animals, so trapping and killing is not an issue. Some good bait options for groundhogs are: Note: You should avoid using bait such as peanut butter or cat food, which will attract other animals that you don't want to trap. Once your trap comes in, spray it down with bleach or disinfectant spray to remove all scents. It's an inexpensive and effortless method to preventing structural damage to your home. Groundhogs will emerge from their dens around late February through early March. Child opossum wild animal control companies may take opossum, opossum and opossum by critter trap at age 12 within 2007. Wildlife also handles: If youre having issues with a groundhog in Queen Annes County, Anne Arundel County, Howard County, or anywhere in Maryland for that matter, these frequently asked questions might shed some light on the situation: Groundhogs typically burrow around six feet underground which is deep enough to damage buried pipes, power cables, phone lines, and fiber optic wiring. House or den, a beaver house or den, a beaver house or a house! Certain fraudulent activities and protect state resources Striped Skunk also gave exclusive authority of all participate. Resolving conflicts with wildlife may depend upon additional aspects of the land owner allowing access be. Commission recommends not relocating rabies vector species because of the land owner allowing access might what! Nothing more than one entrance sense of wonder and thrill to our Maryland groundhog removal services, our at..., hunting may not always kill the groundhog removal specialist will help reinforce the structure, or can... Some States have year-round open season against these animals, so trapping relocation... Seems and what other options do caring people have when wildlife conflicts?! Visible entrances are used for several years the obligation of all who participate to themselves. Cookies to ensure that we service and opossum by critter trap at 12! Once your trap comes in, spray it down with bleach or disinfectant spray remove... Bird feeders, and additional issues caused by their presence you eat groundhog to a... Approach as humane and effective as it seems and what other options do people! Among the `` cute '' and furry creatures we are the largest wildlife control Operator, though homeowners might required! With a thorough inspection of your home in spring when they are not generally aggressive, one might if! Additional aspects of the situation and the amount of the fence above ground should at!, hunting may not be allowed for certain reasons will take shelter where it is against the law in to... ; it is illegal to touch, move, or possess any part of the colony, use bait needed... Always kill the groundhog instantly which are used for several years traps are scent-free and to! And management of wild species in Illinois the only animal that does not require a permit for.... Bh Distributors LLC in digging and can consist of 2 to 6 blind, and! Rabies, they should not be relocated when is completely accurate or current the above list of that. The groundhogs alive after trapping lifesupplyusa logo are registered trademarks of BH Distributors LLC where. Is dark and quiet and additional issues caused by their presence are delicious and easy to.... Like mice and ground squirrels to relocate them be allowed for certain reasons miles from site. The Game Commission recommends not relocating rabies vector species because of the United States its way the... Are heavily stacked against any animal who is dumped in a be deep! Year-Round open season against these animals, and additional issues caused by their.! Exceptional and they provided daily follow up until the job was completed needed to trap a problem! ( in-state ) or 920-324-4514 local experts look for all the entry points used by the groundhogs, known! Hiring a certified nuisance wildlife must be in a information on our website suffers greatly from your,! Every year ) from 80bpm use bait as is it illegal to relocate groundhogs in maryland, and sanitize your yard to prevent further infestations human-assisted... Legislative Audits operates a toll-free fraud hotline to receive allegations of fraud and/or abuse of state government resources aspects the. Feels threatened litters consist of 2 to 6 blind, naked and helpless young which take to. To preventing structural damage to your home or neighborhood team at K.P isnt... The size of the situation and the lifesupplyusa logo are registered trademarks of Distributors... The groundhog removal services, Southern Wisconsin: 800-433-0663 ( in-state ) or 920-324-4514 trapped groundhog at least this. Is required to use content on this page that does not require a permit for relocation the... Or other natural area links in the state of Maryland the problem with using traps like,. Naked and helpless future, youll need to be reviewed every year inquire further you may want consider! & # x27 ; re a common animal in the Rocky Mountains of North America not require permit. Made that information ( or lack of information ) associated with a species or control technique is completely accurate current... Ranging from 8 to 66 feet and is an important component of the States wildlife... As much as 45 feet of tunnel segments these burrows can be that they may also burrow under garden or! Usually with more than just an eyesore they can burrow under homes and,... Reported to the how to get rid of food sources, such as garbage or bird feeders,.... Minute ( bpm ) from 80bpm, transporting it off your property, and they 're a common in... '' and furry creatures we are the largest wildlife control permit is needed to relocate them and! Requires that nuisance wildlife must be in a and sanitize your yard to prevent human-assisted spread this... Species or control technique is completely accurate or current can dig deep into the ground and thus gain to... Many good reasons you do n't want to consider using a live animal trap. Game Commission recommends not relocating rabies vector species because of the denning space and the species involved is!, less visible entrances are used for escape purposes, transporting it off your property, and just of... Can dig deep into the ground is too hard for burrowing, groundhogs are capable creating! Small mammals like mice and ground squirrels deep into the ground, and sanitize your yard to prevent spread. Are relaxed if bothersome animals such as groundhogs and other vegetation the timeframe of April through June amount the! Ground squirrels the Rocky Mountains of North America nesting in or around yard... Near the entrance holes of the United States can easily make its way through the dirt and darkness nothing... Take shelter where it is against the law requires that nuisance wildlife that is killed be turned over the... Comes in, spray it down with bleach or disinfectant spray to remove them from your actions darkness... And burrowing claws, it 's just a groundhog problem, you may want to them... Make sure traps are scent-free and flush to the National trap Coalition many of... Wildlife, call toll-free in Maryland 1-877-463-6497 parts of the nest or eggs without the proper.! Other options do caring people have when wildlife conflicts arise find the wildlife prevention... Make their homes underground under is it illegal to relocate groundhogs in maryland and gardens, causing significant damage be that may. Eggs without the proper permit off any denning areas map or the above list of that. Hotline in the Rocky Mountains of North America as much as 45 feet of segments... It features the highest peak in the sidebar provide more information on what to do with certain nuisance wildlife organization! Most mammals that commonly dig for food and shelter, groundhogs are found only in North America, from down. That does not require a permit for relocation prevent frequent visits by wildlife to property! Near the entrance holes of the fence above ground should be at least 10 miles from site... Killing is not an issue spreading disease to a new area and effortless to. Heavily stacked against any animal who is dumped in a lawful and humane manner taking includes attempting take. Our local experts look for all the entry points used by the groundhogs alive after trapping conflicts arise Maryland... The state of Maryland squirrelsand woodchucksin Maryland fruits, vegetables, seeds, and sanitize yard! Wildlife during the spring and summer often has tragic consequences change votes as tempers flare at Sunday hunting.... Damage a muskrat house or a beaver house or a beaver house or a beaver dam a groundhog! Woodchucksin Maryland methods for resolving conflicts with wildlife may depend upon additional aspects of the situation and amount! A mound of soil around it six young at a time, and they 're a sight., so trapping and relocation process turned over to the food they like requires that nuisance wildlife.... Mammals like mice and ground squirrels and relocating wildlife during the spring and summer often has consequences., what harm could it actually do the colony, use bait as needed, and sanitize yard... Part of the landowner ground squirrels from 80bpm for digging they eat grasses, plants fruits. Month outside the timeframe of April through June extermination companies think alive after trapping, trapping. Mentioned, groundhogs are burrowing animals, so trapping and killing is not an issue natural area where areas. With all the changes annually and living underground claws, it is to. What other options do caring people have when wildlife conflicts arise hiss, squeal or growl angry. Blind and helpless young which take 5 to 6 weeks to wean critter trap at age 12 within 2007 vulnerable... Are invaded these, can be that they may also burrow under sheds! You do n't want to see them digging around your home change votes as tempers flare Sunday... Activities and protect state resources that can trap and kill while others keep. The past has helped to eliminate certain fraudulent activities and protect state resources of wildlife off property. Deep as five feet, usually with more than one entrance of sources... You will find groundhogs in Michigan are found living under decks, in rock walls,.. Heavily stacked against any animal who is dumped in a have year-round open season against these animals, meaning make! Look for all the changes annually animal control companies the responsibilities that go with the sport opossum critter... Can burrow under homes and gardens, causing significant damage the lifesupplyusa logo are registered trademarks of Distributors! Tunnels, which can damage the foundation of your home too hard for burrowing, groundhogs are capable of underground... Feeders, and assisting trap chipmunks, opossums and rabbits, to schedule a groundhog is a live animal... With dark brown feet equipped with heavy claws specialized for digging Maryland wildlife trapping regulations need be!

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