Bend the top 15 inches of the fence out at a 45-degree angle for extra protection from climbing chucks. Click here to hire us in your town and check prices - updated for year 2020. The Humane Society of the United States is registered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. If possible, delay removing the mother until the young are active. If you live in an area where hunting is allowed, groundhogs may be harvested year-round, statewide, with a valid Michigan hunting license. Do you know how frequently you must check a trap set to capture wildlife. Advantage Internet Marketing, to schedule a groundhog removal inspection and estimate with a member of our. No permit is required to trap a groundhog. The entrances are usually well-hidden and can be difficult to find. The height of the fence above ground should be at least 3 feet. 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. Groundhogs will also eat insects from time to time. Thus, shooting nuisance groundhogs on personal property is justified. When the only other option is killing, we sometimes agree that relocation, which gives the wild animal at least a chance, is acceptable. Terms and conditions. Their heartbeat can slow down to 4 or 5 beats per minute (bpm) from 80bpm! Groundhogs can cause damage to backyard plantings and building foundations. They can create underground networks of tunnels, which can damage the foundation of your home. Groundhogs may NOT be relocated off the property they were trapped. Remember, during the spring and summer months, it is extremely likely that the animal denning under your steps or elsewhere around your home is a female with dependent young. Transporting a trapped wild animal may make for an interesting car ride, so make sure youre prepared. Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are excellent diggers, but it is this talent that makes them a serious nuisance for Maryland homeowners. So, if you want to get rid of groundhogs, what can you legally do? Using the traps that kill at once may be dangerous and they can kill the pets instead and in some places they are illegal. 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's completely safe and humane to capture and relocate a groundhog. It's an inexpensive and effortless method to preventing structural damage to your home. Is it illegal to kill groundhogs in Maryland? If they are doing damage or about to do it, the Michigan law protects them.ContentsCan you relocate wild animals in Michigan?Can you relocate raccoons in Michigan?Can I relocate a groundhog in Michigan?Can animals be relocated?Is it. They can buy one dangerous opossum wildlife trapping hunting certificate over the counter July 16 through September 16. Much depends on the species involved, the time of year, the area into which relocation occurs and other factorstoo many to write a general prescription. Please select your city or town from the above map or the above list of areas that we service. Contributions to the HSUS are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. These are typically where the mother groundhog will take her young to safety. However, there are times when being face-to-face with nature poses a new set of problems. North America If you euthanize the groundhog, which is legal, make sure you do it in a humane way (quick & painless) and legal way. These large rodents can get up to 2 feet long and can weigh up to 14 pounds. No guarantee is made that information (or lack of information) associated with a species or control technique is completely accurate or current. 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. Range: The woodchuck's range extends from eastern Alaska, through much of Canada, into the eastern United States, and south to northern Georgia. Homeowners can also try to live-trap groundhogs themselves. By providing your mobile number, you agree to receive autodialed, recurring text messages from the HSUS with updates and ways you can help animals. Despite this there might be no free Maryland animal services for wildlife within Maryland County. This will make the process easier and quicker; the animal will be less cautious to approach the trap. It is generally a grizzled brown, grayish-brown, or reddish-brown in color. While digging along the edge of the house, they might nest on the foundation, causing damage due to prolonged exposure to moisture, sunlight, chewing, and water runoff. . With a squat body and burrowing claws, it can easily make its way through the dirt and darkness. A groundhog usually travels no more than 150 feet from its den to feed. Imagine the cost of repairing damaged drain pipes and foundations? They raidgardens and can dig ankle-twistingholes. When the only other option is killing, we sometimes agree that relocation, which gives the wild animal at least a chance, is acceptable. US Department Agriculture (USDA), Wildlife Services Operators are available from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, except State holidays. We're available on the following channels. 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. Those who animal capture private land within Zones 1 and 2 must either own 40 hectares of land or have permission to animal capture the private nuisance wildlife land within the respective opossum Management Unit (DMU) they wish to animal capture. If you find a groundhog on your property and there is the potential that there are babies involved, the best thing to do would be to wait and see if the mother moves them. 2) If I'm understanding correctly, a groundhog is a rabies vector animal and relocating them is not allowed. Once your trap comes in, spray it down with bleach or disinfectant spray to remove all scents. This is another sign that there are babies present. Kevin and Mike were dedicated to resolving my problem. JavaScript is required to use content on this page. This is not a humane option, as the animal suffers greatly from your actions. Groundhogs, or woodchucks, are very common in rural areas but are also frequently seen in suburban areas. State regulations prohibit the holding of . Help people find the wildlife conflict prevention and control assistance they need. You are probably seeing the same one in your yard each day. Groundhogs belong to the rodent family. Habitat: Groundhogs prefer to live along forest edges where timbered areas are bordered by open fields. For those who want to support the rule of Striped Skunk, doing so would certainly increase public input. Refer to the American Veterinary Medical Association for guidelines on euthanasia. Woodchucks are burrowing members of the squirrel family, which includes tree squirrels, flying squirrels, and chipmunks. You will find groundhogs in open plains or digging holes and living underground. All of this might be from most likely a report decreed within February 1997 by the Citizens Research Legal of Maryland. 3) Relocate any trapped groundhog at least 10 miles from capture site. 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. You . Please enable scripts and reload this page. The law requires that nuisance wildlife that is killed be turned over to the Game Commission. Legal ways to kill skunks, squirrels, raccoons, woodchucks, other pesky animals. 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. How long does it take green tomatoes to ripen off the vine? Well-adapted to urban life, they will opt to nest in safe, quiet and dark spacessuch as an uncapped chimney or under the back porch stepsif given the opportunity. You can accidentally place an animal within range of its predators den, or make it impossible for them to get back to their offspring or parents. Do you know how to properly dispose of an animal carcass? 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. 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. The short answer is YES, you should.Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are aggressive animals that . Try using a combination of unpleasant smells and sounds. Groundhogs prefer to live in open country areas that are nearby edges of woodland. Born in 1929, King's actual birthday is January 15 (which in 1929 fell on a Tuesday). They can burrow under homes and gardens, causing significant damage. Is it legal to relocate raccoons in Michigan? Their burrows can be as deep as five feet, usually with more than one entrance. 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. If this course of action is taken, homeowners must obtain a free landowner trapping permit by calling 1-877-463-6497 from Maryland or 410-349-8130 from outside of Maryland. How To Catch A Groundhog | Live Trap | Catch and Release Share Watch on Can you eat groundhog? Since woodchucks are active during the day, set the trap in the morning and close or remove it during the night; this will minimize the likelihood of catching a non-target animal that is active at night. Relocation and release of woodchucks is not recommended because the chance of survival is poor. Wildlife, and our groundhog removal specialists are happy to explain the process to you. Listen for high-pitched squealing sounds coming from the ground. Control groundhogs by preventing their access in to a vegetable garden with a strong 4-foot fence, buried 12 inches in the ground. At least, this might be what Maryland extermination companies think. Its important to note that there are some animals migratory birds, big game and threatened and endangered species for which protection is not removed because of damage to personal property; so they cant be killed by homeowners in the same manner, More:Here's your complete guide to the 2019 fall hunting season in Pennsylvania. We service over 500 USA locations! They dig up plants and destroy gardens. Along with the sound science requirement within regulating all game wildlife trapping, "the initiative would also require public organized hearing prior to the issuance of any orders by the National Trap Coalition." problems with feeding wildlife. The other, less visible entrances are used for escape purposes. We also do not encourage our customers to try home remedies because they do not provide a permanent solution to your problem. Colorado is also home to the second fastest land mammal in the world, the pronghorn. Groundhogs are vegetarians and eat plants, grass, flowers, and other vegetation. 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. There are the Clarksville groundhogs that can trap and kill while others can keep the groundhogs alive after trapping. If you need a wild animal removed from your property, contact a Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO). It is against the law to relocate wildlife in California. Wildlife Removal is the largest and most trusted wildlife control company in Maryland. Its front feet are very powerful for digging burrows. When the removal process is complete, our Maryland groundhog removal specialists reinforce the structure to prevent infestation in the future. Make sure the back of the trap is screened with -inch mesh or smaller to prevent raccoons from reaching the bait without entering the trap. map or the above list of areas that we service. It's an inexpensive and effortless method to preventing structural damage to your home. For phone numbers outside of Maryland, please call: 410-349-8130. 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. Make no mistake, groundhogs have no place on your property cute as they may be. Once the cage has been opened, let the animal run free in his or her new home, and hope you never see it again. Operating This way the occupant will have to push the obstruction aside to get out or come back in. They especially like fields used for agriculture. Groundhogs will chatter teeth, hiss, squeal or growl when angry. It is illegal in PA to relocate groundhogs because they are considered to be a rabies vector species. 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. Permittees must comply with permit requirements and local firearms restrictions. . Groundhogs prefer to live along forest edges where timbered areas are bordered by open fields. The ploy of including Suggestion Striped Skunk along with Falcon would give the latter less chance of being usable if passed. If you want to do it yourself because you have personal vendetta against the creature who has ruined your greenery, go for it. Groundhogs are normally in their burrows at night. In fact, this is the only animal that does not require a permit for relocation. Nuisance Wildlife Sometimes, it is necessary to learn how to prevent frequent visits by wildlife to your home or neighborhood. How to keep woodchucks from burrowing and denning under my porch, deck, or shedExplore this solution, How to protect my property from woodchuck damageExplore this solution, How to shoot or trap problem woodchucksExplore this solution, What should I do if I find an orphaned or abandoned young baby wild animal?Explore this solution, What to do with an animal that is behaving strangely or aggressivelyExplore this solution, Presented by these government wildlife management agencies as a trusted source for sound, legal and responsible wildlife control and damage prevention advice, In Maryland, WildlifeHelp.org is supported by the Wildlife Management Institute, the Northeast Wildlife Damage Management Cooperative, the Northeast Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Sometimes, it is necessary to learn how to prevent frequent visits by wildlife to your home or neighborhood. Relocation of nuisance wildlife must be evaluated on a case by case basis. However, the problem with using traps like these, can be that they may not always kill the groundhog instantly which . Groundhogs are herbivores and often be found grazing on grass, leaves, flowers, clover, alfalfa, wheat and rye. More:Lifting antler restrictions, expanded seasons part of Game Commission's CWD response plan. Groundhogs are excellent diggers; they dig both simple and complex burrow systems. Even if the orphaned young are discovered, rescued and taken to a wildlife rehabilitator to be reared, it remains a bleak situation for both mother and offspring; one that could have been easily prevented. WHS also does not rehabilitate wildlife, but they do administerpermits for those interested in becoming licensed. The mother will not be able to care for them if she's relocated, and the babies will likely die without her. Wild animals can bring a sense of wonder and thrill to our lives. Maryland Department of Natural Resources Wildlife and Heritage Service Tawes State Office Building, E-1 Annapolis MD 21401 410-260-8540 Toll-free in Maryland: 1-877-620-8DNR, Ext. This free permit can be obtained by calling the Maryland Nuisance Wildlife Hotline at 877-463-6497. Groundhogs have rounded . There is alwaysthe option of hiring a certified Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator, though homeowners might be reluctant to pay for services. Before releasing the animal on any public or private land, obtain permission from the landowner or governing agency. It is illegal for you to move or relocate an animal off your property. It is observed on the third Monday of January each year. 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. Groundhogs can cause real problems for home vegetable and flower gardeners. Choose an area that provides cover so that your groundhog will not want to travel far to make a new home. It is not illegal to trap and release groundhogs. This is meant to keep both wildlife and people safe. Queen Annes County Animal Removal Services: Barclay (21607), Centreville (21617), Church Hill (21623, 21656), Millington (21651), Queen Anne (21657), Queenstown (21658), Sudlersville (21668), Templeville (21670). Text STOP to 77879 to opt out, HELP for info. Groundhogs typically burrow around six feet underground which is deep enough to damage buried pipes, power cables, phone lines, and fiber optic wiring. We are the largest wildlife control organization in the state of Maryland. The main concern with relocation is that you will place the animal too far away from its food source, and it will die. Then if a neighbor complains, I know I'm covered. 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). As groundhog populations continue to rise, you won't be surprised to find that they live in several different areas in Maryland - even urban areas. You'll want to drop him off in a clearing that is about 2-5 miles away. If you choose not to relocate the groundhog, they can either be released on-site where the animal was originally trapped or you may humanely kill it. The fact might be, changes are proceeding within accordance of law and this year, there are several dealing with dangerous wildlife trapping that everyone should be aware of. In Ontario, it is illegal to trap and relocate animals from the site where they were captured according to the Ministry of Natural Resources' Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act. They can also be live-trapped with fresh fruit or vegetables used as bait. Because of that designation, the law requires Nuisance Wildlife Control Operators to kill them rather than release them after they are trapped. If you drop wildlife off in an area it is not familiar with, its chances of survival drop drastically. However, permission is required from the landowner before releasing into suitable habitat. Groundhogs dig holes on top of hills creating landslides. RaccoonsMaryland Raccoon Removal Information, SquirrelsMaryland Squirrel Removal Information, OpossumMaryland Opossum Removal Information, GroundhogMaryland Groundhog Removal Information, ArmadillosMaryland Armadillo Removal Information, BeaverMaryland Beaver Removal Information, CoyotesMaryland Coyote Removal Information, DeadMaryland Dead Animal Removal Information, OthersMaryland Other Wildlife Species Information. However, permission is required from the landowner before releasing into suitable habitat. Woodchucks weigh least in spring when they are just out of hibernation and most in fall prior to hibernation. Groundhogs . If you are from another state, please indicate your interest by signing up for notification when your state is added. Groundhogs are permitted to be killed if they are causing damage such as digging at a homes foundation. Most Maryland pest control companies that we interviewed found this interesting. Published: Aug. 10, 2017, 7:46 p.m. By . If in doubt, click your nearest area, and give us a . We service over 50 state locations. There are some things you should put at the back of your mind while you choose to relocate groundhog to any place. If the block hasnt moved for three to four days (and its not the dead of winter), the den has been vacated and its safe to make repairs. While they may be cute and seemingly harmless, they can undoubtedly be destructive to a homeowner's property. The pronghorn is capable of running 30 miles/hour and sustaining that pace for more than 20 miles! . When they hit water pipes, it can cause leaks in your home, and their burrowing can create sinkholes on your property. Homeowners who set traps and catch these species face the choice of killing the animal or releasing it. 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. Suddenly in an unfamiliar place, they are disoriented and dont know where to find shelter, food or water. Get rid of food sources, such as garbage or bird feeders, and . Click your town on the below map: We are the largest wildlife control organization in the state of Maryland. RaccoonsRaccoon Control Education and Services, SquirrelsSquirrel Control Education and Services, OpossumOpossum Control Education and Services, SkunksSkunk Control Education and Services, GroundhogGroundhog Control Education and Services, ArmadillosArmadillo Control Education and Services, BeaverBeaver Control Education and Services, CoyotesCoyote Control Education and Services, SnakesSnake Control Education and Services, DeadDead Animal Control Education and Services. Taking includes attempting to take wild animals, and assisting . 24/7/365. The 2018-2019 trapping season for groundhogs started June 1 and ends September 30. They dig burrows that can be 6 feet (1.8 meters) deep, and 20 feet (6 m) wide. Groundhogs dig burrows or tunnels underground to live in and hibernate in during the winter months. Read on for more information about animal control within Maryland, Maryland. Trapping animals and relocating them isn't the best option, Better Business Bureau Accredited Charity. When deciding whether or not to trap a groundhog, you should consider the potential damage they could do to your property. Child opossum wild animal control companies may take opossum, opossum and opossum by critter trap at age 12 within 2007. Horses and pets are particularly at risk, making it very important to ensure the issue is addressed right away. If you feel like Bill Murray in Caddyshack, and youre watching a groundhog tear up your beautifully landscaped yard, getting rid of the creature is your first priority. Maryland - The statewide wildlife trapping and trapping regulations are amended each year to accommodate changes deemed necessary by the Maryland Agency of Natural Resources/Wildlife regulatory agency (M-trappin' agency/National Trap Coalition). SAME-DAY SHIPPING FOR ALL ORDER PLACED BEFORE 12PM EST. Find solutions by species, Find a licensed wildlife control professional, How to keep woodchucks from burrowing and denning under my porch, deck, or shed, How to protect my property from woodchuck damage. 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. Though groundhogs are not generally aggressive, one might attack if it feels threatened. 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. Unfortunately, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Wildlife and Heritage Service (WHS) does not have the staff or resources to respond to every injured or distressed wildlife report. What happens when you relocate a groundhog? They will use their sharp claws to dig burrows for sleeping, nesting and hibernating. Groundhogs are homebodies. Headquarters:1125 West St Suite 200 Annapolis, Md 21401, 2019 KP Wildlife Control, All Rights Reserved. Do you know what bait should be used to ensure you catch the targeted species? Groundhogs in Michigan are found living under decks, in rock walls, and in hills. 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. Hunting season for groundhogs starts June 1 and runs . To report nuisance, injured or sick wildlife, call toll-free in Maryland 1-877-463-6497. Alternative places of refuge are part of that knowledge or cognitive map. For the record, that would probably not include packing groundhog holes with explosives, a la Bill Murray in "Caddyshack. 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. The network of tunnels can cover an area underground ranging from 8 to 66 feet and is used for several years. Description: The woodchuck, also called groundhog, is the largest member of the squirrel family in the state. It might be the obligation of all who participate to familiarize themselves with all the changes annually. They dont know where to go to escape from predators. You do not need a hunting license to kill a problem groundhog. These burrows provide homes for other animals like skunks, foxes, opossums and rabbits. 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. Below, we have provided links to information on how to deal with nuisance wildlife and sick, injured or orphaned wildlife. Groundhogs are diurnal creatures and most active during the morning and late afternoon. We also provide professional service in over 600 locations. We set traps near the entrance holes of the colony, use bait as needed, and sanitize your yard to prevent further infestations. It may even become necessary to remove Nuisance Wildlife from your property. Wild animals have a sophisticated knowledge of their home ranges (the area in which they spend almost their entire life). They can be a nuisance to homeowners, especially in the spring when they are looking for a place to raise their young. Site Designed and Developed by: All killing of nuisance wildlife must be in a lawful and humane manner. If youre lucky though, you live in a state that allows you to relocate the groundhog. However, this is not something you should allow to go on for very long. Is it illegal to catch and release groundhogs? These holes are more than just an eyesore they can also be a tripping hazard. If you dont manage to scare the groundhog off with repellants or other methods, it may be time to trap it. Handling wildlife may also put you at risk for disease. Groundhogs typically give birth to two to six young at a time, and they're born blind and helpless. Set traps at main burrow entrances or along major travel lanes. The hunting certificate may be purchased for either public or private land and youngsters 10 and 11 are restricted to nuisance wildlife control-only. i think its illegal to kill them but i dont think hurting them is but the squirrels have to be alive and running. The burrow system is also where they raise their young. Do you know how to release a trapped animal? Occasionally, they also will raid gardens or agricultural fields for fruits and vegetables like cucumbers. Copyright Maryland.gov. The entrance hole is made larger as the animal grows. Read on for the answersand some solutions! Handling wildlife may also put you at risk for disease. Usually, litters consist of 2 to 6 blind, naked and helpless young which take 5 to 6 weeks to wean. Feeding wildlife can often cause some species to become a nuisance, or even aggressive as they begin to expect to be fed. Epsom salts sprinkled near or around the burrow entrances or exits will keep the groundhog away. These suggestions are general guidelines only. While wildlife is generally protected under the law, protection is removed if the animal is damaging or destroying personal property. Email us at info@wildlifeanimalcontrol.com - Animal Education - Wildlife Control in Over 600 Locations, Dead Animal Control Education and Services, Click here to hire us in your town and check prices. where regulations may be more restrictive, especially as it applies to discharge of firearms, transport of animals or use of trapping equipment. 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. Massachusetts law prohibits the capture and relocation of wildlife off your property. Is it illegal to kill groundhogs in North Carolina? If youre not up for trapping the animal yourself, call a professional. Relocating an animal may not only give someone else a nuisance problem, but spreads diseases, such as rabies and distemper, Lyme disease and West Nile virus. US Department Agriculture (USDA), Wildlife Services Operators are available from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, except State holidays. It might be also most likely a good tool for teaching new wild animal control companies the responsibilities that go with the sport. The best time to trap a groundhog is in the late spring or early summer when they're looking for food. You may be trying to access this site from a secured browser on the server. Use trap covers during hot weather to provide shade as woodchucks are highly vulnerable to heat stress. Groundhogs are herbivors who only eat plants. These laws exist to aid property owners in nuisance wildlife . All rights reserved. Register to be listed on this site. In that case, wire the trap door and bait the trap. The only proper way to permanently rid yourself of groundhogs is to work with a Maryland groundhog removal company. 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. 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. When you notice the same groundhog in your yard every day, you should not let him dig there for long. Exclusion setting traps for the groundhogs, removing them from the property, and relocating them to a spot at least five miles away. Place a pile of bait behind the trigger and scatter a little bait outside the opening of the trap and just inside the trap entrance. No permit is required to trap a groundhog. Maryland > Animal is under my porch, deck or shed > Woodchuck. When relocating problem woodchucks, take into account the breeding season and the potential for young being left behind. Wildlife for more information on our trapping and relocation process. We will notify you on events like Low stock, Restock, Price drop or general reminders so that you dont miss the deal. 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. It has a broad rounded body with short powerful legs and a short, flat, bushy tail. Tim Koby might be the Outdoors Editor for KMB Broadcasting and host/producer of Trails & Tales Outdoors Radio aired on six radio stations over three networks, Charter Communications Cable and the Online on Saturday morning. Repairs we repair all the damage done by the groundhogs or refer you to a licensed professional for things like severe electrical lines, HVAC problems, or plumbing issues. By Illinois law, a property owner or tenant needs a Nuisance Animal Removal Permit to trap and remove most species of wildlife. Its better to be safe rather than sorry. 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. They had been given this charge to manage game by use of sound scientific management back within 1997 under Suggestion "Striped Skunk". Recommended methods for resolving conflicts with wildlife may depend upon additional aspects of the situation and the species involved. Beginning in late October and early November, groundhogs will hibernate. This is not a humane option, as the animal suffers greatly from your actions. 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. Only two private land dangerous opossum wildlife trapping hunting certificates per wildlife management company are allowed this year within Zone 1 and 2 and several U.P. They are territorial and feel incredibly vulnerable when their burrows are invaded. As mentioned, groundhogs are burrowing animals, meaning they make their homes underground. Most wildlife is protected by law and cannot be killed or even removed without a permit. 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. In most cases, nuisance wildlife need not be brought to wildlife rehabilitators. While wildlife is generally protected under the law, protection is removed if the animal is damaging or destroying personal property. Any person, before destroying any big game under the conditions provided for in this section, is . Despite this there might be no free Maryland animal services for wildlife within Maryland County. (b) It shall be unlawful to set, use, or maintain a body gripping trap to take woodchucks which is set more than three feet from the hole, or structure the woodchuck is inhabiting. The Game Commission recommends not relocating rabies vector species because of the increased possibility of spreading disease to a new area. Be tolerant and wait a few weeks until the family has vacated the premises and youll prevent orphaning of the young altogether. Most people will look to relocate a pest animal like a groundhog at least ten miles away from your property. There are many good reasons to trap and relocate a groundhog. There are times and circumstances when relocation is surely a better alternative than certain death. Squirrels that have been live-captured must be released on the property where they were caught or euthanized. In addition to our Maryland groundhog removal services, our team at K.P. The woodchuck, or groundhog, is a creature built for living underground. Instead, you will see varying forms of yard damage usually holes spread around the property. We set traps at the entrance created by the groundhogs, and our groundhog removal experts relocate the animals to a safe place. Call us today! Look for small holes in the ground that are about two inches wide. LifeSupplyUSA and the LifeSupplyUSA logo are registered trademarks of BH Distributors LLC. STEP 1: Prevent nesting by maintaining your yard. We set traps near the entrance holes of the colony, use bait as needed, and sanitize your yard to prevent further infestations. For those who want to abolish the rule of Striped Skunk, doing so would certainly reduce public input. Some states dont allow anyone but professionals to have a trapping license, youll have to either learn to live with your furry friend or pay up to have someone else remove it. 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. The mother will care for them for about six weeks until they're independent. Smaller than one might imagine, most of the animals are less than two feet long and weight less than ten pounds. Although "nuisance" might not have been your first thought to describe them. Change or refresh baits daily. Information reported to the hotline in the past has helped to eliminate certain fraudulent activities and protect State resources. Groundhogs are one of a few species that can be trapped or hunted. They are not aggressive creatures, but there are many good reasons you don't want to see them digging around your yard. If youre trying to save money, caging it yourself may be the way to go. They can cause widespread damage to flower beds and lawns. An electric fence wire placed 4-5 inches off the ground and the same distance outside the fence should be used to prevent the groundhog from climbing over the fence. If your home has a cinder block or slab foundation, groundhogs might gain access to the basement or crawl space. Thereof, is it illegal to relocate groundhogs in Maryland? Please enable JavaScript in your browser. When the ground is too hard for burrowing, groundhogs will take shelter where it is dark and quiet. Much depends on the species involved, the time of year, the area into which relocation occurs and other factorstoo many to write a general prescription. Generally, these burrows have 2 to 5 entrances to help escape from predators. If you have a groundhog problem, you may want to consider using a live animal cage trap to remove them from your property. To prevent woodchucks from scaling the fence, you can add an electrified wire 45 inches off the ground and 45 inches from the outside of the fence. Groundhogs in Michigan are found living under decks, in rock walls, and in hills. The HSUS's tax identification number is 53-0225390. 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. This would be any month outside the timeframe of April through June. The Illinois Department of National Resources is tasked with conservation and management of wild species in Illinois. The long, coarse fur of the back is a grizzled grayish brown with a yellowish or reddish cast. This stocky, medium-sized mammal is built for digging with short, strong legs and long . Prince Georges County Animal Removal Services: Bowie (20715, 20716, 20720, 20721), Beltsville (20705), Adelphi (20783), College Park (20740,20742), Greenbelt (25689), Hyattsville (20781, 20782, 20783, 20784), Landover (20785), Laurel (20707, 20723), Springdale (20774), Upper Marlboro (20772, 20774), Woodlawn (21207). Groundhogs are also common throughout Maryland. They especially like fields used for agriculture. 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. Consult with the annual Illinois Digest of Hunting and Trapping Regulations for season dates and legal methods of harvesting groundhogs. Contact the Nuisance Wildlife Information Line at 1-877-463-6497 for more information. This is legislated through Colorado is the only state entirely above 3300 feet of elevation. Groundhogs are one of 14 species of marmots in the Squirrel family (Scuiridae). 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. 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. I can attest to its precision, as my Marauder always prints dime-sized groups at 50 yards. LifeSupplyUSA Replacement AC4800 Air Filters Work Wonders for Allergy Sufferers, How to Use Electrostatic Filters to Assist with Seasonal Allergies, 5 Common Mistakes with Power Extension Cords and How to Avoid Them, Removing Dust & Other Household Chores You Can Automate. Also, many pest companies are called exterminators for a reason. If you find a groundhog in your yard, and you're not sure if he has babies, there are a few things you can look for. They either dont work or provide nothing more than a temporary fix. More:Committee members vow to change votes as tempers flare at Sunday hunting hearing. In fact, the odds are heavily stacked against any animal who is dumped in a strange park, woodland or other natural area. It's difficult to visualize a little groundhog being destructive. However, permission is required from the landowner before releasing into suitable habitat. All you need to do is wait for him to take the bait, it will take no further effort on your part. Go back to the How to get rid of groundhogs home page. Please add product to your wishlist to see them here. Groundhogs are also known as whistlepigs, because when they are alarmed, they belt out a shrill whistle to warn others. Nuisance groundhogs can be live-trapped and relocated with permission of the landowner. The size of the denning space and the amount of ventilation will largely influence if such repellents will work. Releasing a skunk or a raccoon can be a risky situation. At least, this might be what Maryland extermination companies think. In addition, their body temperature can drop from 98 degrees to as little as 38 degrees! Check all traps twice daily, morning and evening, so that captured animals may be quickly removed. Is it illegal to catch and release groundhogs? They may also burrow under garden sheds or other outdoor structures. Baltimore County Animal Removal Services: Arbutus (21227), Catonsville (21228, 21250), Cockeysville (21030, 21031, 21065), Dundalk (21222), Edgemere (21219), Essex (21221), Garrison (21055), Lansdowne (21227), Lochearn (21207), Lutherville (21093), Middle River (21220), Milford Mill (21244), Overlea (21236), Owings Mills (21117), Parkville (21234), Park Heights (21215), Pikesville (21208), Randallstown (21133), Reisterstown (21136), Rosedale (21237), Timonium (21093), Towson (21204), White Marsh (21162), Woodlawn (21207), and more. DMUs will be closed to dangerous wildlife trapping this season. If you see a mother and her young together, it's best to leave them alone and let them go about their business. The recently passed child wildlife trapping regulatory changes alone took over three years to accomplish. Since skunks - as well as raccoons, bats, groundhogs, foxes and coyotes - are rabies vector species, they should not be relocated like other wildlife. Usually, nuisance wildlife that is live-trapped may be relocated. Woodchucks are common and abundant in Massachusetts. The groundhog's feeding and burrowing habitssuch as in hay or crop fields, home gardens, orchards, and nurseriescan result in conflicts with property owners. Often called "groundhogs" or "whistle-pigs," they are not in the pig family at all. Only Northeast state nuisance wildlife control operators are permitted to sign up on WildlifeHelp.org at this time. USDA Wildlife Services, Northern Wisconsin: 800-228-1368 (in-state) or 715-369-5221. We begin the groundhog removal process with a thorough inspection of your home. Whenever possible, habitat alteration (e.g., capping chimney) and education of the homeowner in order to allow release on site is encouraged. (6) Woodchucks or groundhogs (a) It shall be unlawful to use a body gripping trap with a jaw spread greater than seven inches across to take woodchucks. You may not notice the groundhogs because they will avoid you. Read on for more information about animal control within Maryland, Maryland. It is illegal to destroy or damage a muskrat house or den, a beaver house or a beaver dam. Relocation and release of woodchucks is not recommended because the chance of survival is poor. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially when it comes to groundhog removal. The Latest Innovations That Are Driving The Vehicle Industry Forward. Groundhog offspring are born in mid-April to early May and stay with their mother until they're weaned in late June or July. The groundhog is the largest member of the squirrel family. Groundhogs also have a short, bushy tail and often sit on their haunches to feed. The only proper way to permanently rid yourself of groundhogs is to work with a Maryland groundhog removal company. A beaver dam is considered inactive if it is breached or is no longer being . If an animal must be removed, make sure you call a qualified nuisance wildlife controller. For questions, please contact our general wildlife line at 410-260-8540 between 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday-Friday, except State Holidays. We set traps for the groundhogs inside and outside to ensure they are captured quickly. Unbaited cage traps set near openings with boards or logs to guide the woodchuck are also effective. You may be trying to access this site from a secured browser on the server. Groundhogs have rounded claws used for digging. Despite this there might be no free Maryland animal services for wildlife within Maryland County. It typically takes no more than two hours, and if you have the time, it is seriously worth going out of your way. It is not illegal to trap and release groundhogs. It is against the law in Michigan to transport a live wild animal. They can damage fences, sheds, and other structures on your property. Call us at 443.282.5035 or contact us online to schedule a groundhog removal inspection and estimate with a member of our animal removal team. We hope this has been a helpful review of the laws as they pertain to the removal of nuisance groundhogs and woodchucks. What does "taking" mean? Species you can trap: Heres what you need to know: You do not need a hunting license to kill a problem groundhog. Please select your city or town from the above Copyright 2020 by Wildlife Removal. Dont let groundhogs take over your property, Be aware of the hidden issues caused by groundhogs, Dont allow groundhogs to damage your homes foundation, Holes that are 10 to 12 inches in diameter, Bite marks in your garden vegetables or missing plants/flowers, 10 to 12-inch entry holes in your homes exterior, Animal droppings in your basement or crawl space. When food is abundant, woodchucks may not respond to bait. Groundhogs will chatter teeth, hiss, squeal or growl when angry. Maryland Wildlife regulations need to be reviewed. This law has been in effect for many years. No application fee or drawing might be required. Groundhogs are found only in North America, from Canada down to the southern United States. Trapping wildlife, transporting it off your property, and releasing it elsewhere is also illegal in many states, New York included. How do you get rid of a groundhog in Maryland? It is actually against the law to trap and relocate Rodentia. We move the traps to new locations if necessary, and our team will add more if the groundhogs choose other entry points. Epsom Salts. If you think you have found an orphaned wild animal, then please visit our page on But the law does not prohibit relocating rabies vector species, so groundhogs could be relocated to game lands or private property with permission. Fortification we fortify your home against further infestation, closing all entry points, and using durable materials that groundhogs cannot chew or burrow through. Some states have year-round open season against these animals, so trapping and killing is not an issue. During transport a stressed or agitated animal in a trap can be calmed and quieted by covering the trap with an old blanket or tarp, just make sure . With this reorganization, the National Trap Coalition retained its authority to appoint the wildlife officer of the agency and provide policy guidance and the power to appoint the chair and all other members of the wildlife regulatory agency restated with the Governor. Though theyre celebrated every February in Pennsylvania (and in annoying lottery commercials), groundhogs can be a real nuisance for property owners. If you are facing conflicts with wildlife, check your property to see what is attracting the animal. Advertisement Anyone caught relocating a groundhog could be fined $100, according . Big Game Damage Control. Is it legal to relocate groundhogs in Vermont? The face has a blunt nose, small rounded ears, and medium sized eyes. The first thing is the availability of food and water . In many urban areas, hunting may not be allowed for certain reasons. If relocating your groundhog, do so at least 5 miles away from your property. Please refer to our page on some Below is the latest Maryland wildlife removal news from across the state: To find out about safe and legal ways to deal with these problem animals or to locate individuals or companies who are licensed by the Wildlife & Heritage Service to handle wildlife complaints, please call USDA Wildlife Services 1-877-463-6497 from Maryland or 410-349-8130 from outside of Maryland, visit , Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 08.03.15.24, Maryland Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitators, Raccoon in trash by Alexa Clark, Flickr CC BY-NC 2.0, Bubble deer by Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Why isnt this approach as humane and effective as it seems and what other options do caring people have when wildlife conflicts arise? FREE SHIPPING ON ALL US ORDERS! Groundhogs primarily live deep underground (much like the pipes and structure of your home). Summary of Step-By-Step Instructions: 1) Purchase large cage traps - rated raccoon size, usually about 10" x 12" x 30" or so. The denning and nesting season is short. As a PCP air rifle, it requires no expensive ammunition, just pellets, and air. They eat almost any plant material and are especially fond of tomatoes. We look forward to helping you with your Maryland animal problem. 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. In fact, this is the only animal that does not require a permit for relocation. Know your local firearm discharge laws. Domestic animals such as cats, or captive-bred or captive-raised animals may not be relocated on game lands. 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