Wild mammal · Moderate risk
Groundhog
The groundhog (Marmota monax), also called the woodchuck or «siffleux» in Quebec, is a large rodent that digs deep tunnels under foundations, decks and stairs. Its burrows can weaken foundations and cause significant damage to gardens and lawns. A true hibernator, it spends about five months underground over the winter.
40 to 65 cm · Dark brown
§1Distinctive features
How to identify it
A large, stocky rodent, 40 to 65 cm long, with a short, bushy tail (15 cm). Dark brown fur, broad, flat head. It can weigh up to 5 kg in the fall, before hibernation.
§2Habitat
Where to find it
It digs its burrows in banks, under house foundations, under decks, stairs and sheds. It prefers areas with dense vegetation nearby.
§3Reproduction
Lifecycle
Left alone, an empty burrow is quickly reoccupied and the tunnel network keeps spreading.
§4What to look out for
Signs of presence
- Burrow entrance 25 to 30 cm across under a structure
- Mound of soil at the burrow entrance
- Damage to plantings, vegetables and roots
- Tunnels visible under foundations or decks
§5Why act fast
Risks
- Foundations and structures weakened by the tunnels
- Significant damage to gardens and vegetable plots
- Burrows that can shelter other animals (skunks, foxes)
§6Prevention
How to avoid it
- Bury 30 cm of wire mesh, with the last 15 cm bent outward
- Protect vegetable gardens with suitable fencing
- Fill abandoned burrows before they are reoccupied
- Avoid unprotected banks near the foundation
§7Pro method
How MW works
Inspection
Locating active burrows and assessing the damage.
Preparation
Customized plan · steps to take before the visit.
Treatment
Live-trap capture in compliance with the law, release near the capture site, then sealing and backfilling of the burrows.
Follow-up
Control visit · written guarantee offered depending on the treatment chosen.
§8Your questions answered
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if a groundhog lives under my deck?
Can I trap it and release it somewhere else?
Does the groundhog damage foundations?
The groundhog digs burrows under sheds, porches and concrete slabs, which eventually causes them to sink. Capture is regulated by law: that is our wild animal capture service, on properties in Granby, Sherbrooke, Saint-Hyacinthe and Acton Vale.
Sources consulted for this fact sheet: Québec.ca, groundhog · Hinterland Who's Who, groundhog · Ministère des Forêts, de la Faune et des Parcs, winter and the groundhog · Québec.ca, small game hunting.
React quickly, sleep well.
The longer the infestation lasts, the more expensive it becomes.
