THE GROUNDHOG—also known as woodchuck and whistle pig—is one of Missouri's most widely distributed animals. It is legally classed as a game animal.
Groundhogs prefer to construct their burrows on or near farmland where crops grow, but they may also be found in woodlands, on abandoned farms and occasionally in urban areas where the combination of food and cover provides satisfactory habitat. Another common location where they are observed is along highways in the vicinity of culverts.
The groundhog has a compact, chunky body supported by relatively short, strong legs. Its tail is short and bristly. Its forefeet have long, curved claws that are adapted for digging ground burrows where it seeks refuge and hibernates during winter months. Its color is usually a grizzled brownish-gray, although fur color may vary from white to black. Groundhogs have chisel-like incisor teeth that enable the animal to gnaw well.
Groundhogs eat a broad variety of vegetation, and especially favor domestic legumes. In the early mornings and evenings during the summer, groundhogs feed on succulent, green vegetation in preparation for hibernation during late fall. They emerge from hibernation in early February, and mate in February and March. Gestation requires 31 to 33 days. A single litter, with two to nine (usually four) young, is produced each season. The young are weaned by late June or early July, and soon after strike out on their own, usually occupying old,abandoned dens. The numerous new burrows which appear during the late summer are dug by older groundhogs.
Although they seldom venture far from their burrow, groundhogs may range one-fourth to one-half mile in their search for a new home or during breeding season. They are usually sanitary at their den sites, and will clean their burrows and replace nest materials annually. Den systems are frequently used for several seasons. Dens and burrows that are not being used by groundhogs furnish escape for cottontail rabbits and other wildlife.
The feeding and burrowing habits of groundhogs may conflict with other land uses. They feed in hay or crop fields, home gardens, orchards and nurseries; and the burrows and mounds may be hazardous to farm equipment or to horses and riders. For these reasons, control measures may be necessary.
Control
Shooting. Groundhogs may be legally hunted in Missouri in season and may be taken in unlimited numbers by properly licensed hunters. Landowners and hunters should agree on arrangements that will be mutually satisfactory and that will avoid unsafe shooting practices. Make every effort to utilize the carcass. A young medium-sized groundhog makes excellent table fare if properly prepared.
Gas Cartridges. Gas cartridges, which produce a fumigating
gas when burned, may be used in dens by property owners. They
are available at farm- and garden-supply stores. These cartridges
produce carbon monoxide gas which accumulates in lethal amounts
when confined within the burrow system. Carbon monoxide is a humane
fumigating gas. Gas cartridges are filled with combustible materials
and must be ignited by lighting the fuse. They are not bombs and
will not explode if properly prepared and used. Caution: Avoid
prolonged breathing of smoke. Sparks may be thrown, so do not
use near buildings or other combustible materials.
Instructions for use:
- With a spade, cut a clump of sod slightly larger than the burrow opening and place it nearby.
- Punch five pencil-size holes in the end-cap of the cartridge. Insert fuse to half its length into one of the holes. The cartridge is now ready to use and should look like the illustration.
- Kneel at the burrow opening, light the fuse and immediately place the cartridge as far down the hole as you can. Do not throw it.
- Immediately close the burrow opening by placing the sod, grass side down, over the opening to make a tight seal. (Placing sod grass side down prevents smothering the cartridge with loose dirt). Garbage can covers, sand bags, or other suitable closing devices may be used instead.
- Stand by for three or four minutes and watch nearby holes; plug those from which smoke escapes. Repeat until all burrows are closed.
Trapping. Missourians may trap groundhogs that are damaging property. Groundhogs may be trapped with steel leg-hold traps or with live traps made of wood or wire mesh. A No. 1 l/2 coil-spring trap is needed. Bury leg-hold traps in front of the entrance of burrows by sifting dirt over the traps. Be sure that all traps are firmly staked to prevent the animal from dragging the trap into the burrow. If a live trap is used, suggested baits are apples, a slice of cantaloupe, or other fruit. A live trap is preferred in areas frequented by pets. Inspect all traps at least daily for humane reasons.
Missouri Department of Conservation, University of Missouri,U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
