Groundhogs: The Hidden Dangers to Your Property and Health
Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are common in many parts of Virginia. While they might seem harmless, these burrowing animals can cause significant damage to your property and pose health risks. Understanding the potential issues associated with groundhogs is essential for any homeowner looking to protect their home and land.
The Damage Groundhogs Can Cause
Groundhogs are notorious for their burrowing habits, which can lead to serious structural damage and other issues:
Undermining Foundations: Groundhogs dig extensive burrow systems, sometimes reaching up to 45 feet in length. When these burrows are near your home, they can undermine foundations, causing cracks and destabilizing structures.
Damage to Yards and Gardens: Groundhogs love to feast on vegetables, flowers, and other plants. Their digging can ruin lawns, gardens, and landscaping, leaving unsightly holes and mounds of dirt.
Compromising Farm Structures: On agricultural properties, groundhogs can burrow under barns, sheds, and fences, weakening these structures and making them prone to collapse.
Impact on Livestock: Groundhog burrows create tripping hazards for livestock, which can lead to injuries and other issues for farm animals.
Health Risks Associated with Groundhogs
Beyond the physical damage, groundhogs can also carry diseases and parasites that pose risks to both humans and pets:
Rabies: While less common, groundhogs can carry rabies, a serious viral disease that can be transmitted through bites. Rabies is almost always fatal if not treated promptly.
Leptospirosis: Groundhogs are potential carriers of leptospirosis, a bacterial disease that can be transmitted through contact with contaminated water or soil. This disease can cause flu-like symptoms and, in severe cases, kidney damage.
Parasites: Groundhogs can harbor fleas, ticks, and mites, which can spread to pets and humans. These parasites are vectors for various diseases, including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
The Importance of Professional Groundhog Control
Given the potential damage and health risks, it's crucial to address groundhog infestations quickly and effectively. Here's why professional wildlife control is the best solution:
Expert Identification: Professionals can accurately identify groundhog burrows and assess the extent of the infestation. This ensures that all burrows are located and addressed.
Safe and Effective Removal: Attempting to remove groundhogs on your own can be dangerous and ineffective. Professionals use safe and humane methods to capture and remove groundhogs, minimizing risks to you and the animals.
Preventive Measures: After removal, professionals can implement exclusion techniques to prevent future groundhog infestations. This might include reinforcing foundations, installing barriers, and addressing attractants on your property.
Protect Your Property with 10-Eleven Nuisance Wildlife Control
If you suspect groundhogs are causing damage to your property, don't wait for the problem to escalate. At 10-Eleven Nuisance Wildlife Control, we specialize in safe, effective groundhog removal and exclusion services across Virginia. Our team is equipped to handle even the most challenging groundhog infestations, ensuring your home and land are protected.
Contact us today for an inspection and take the first step toward safeguarding your property from these destructive burrowers.
