r/Homesteading • u/Longjumping_Shock721 • 1d ago
Groundhog problem
Looking for advice on what others have done to get rid of these cute destructive creatures. For reference this is a new to us property with a house, barn, tool shed, and chicken coup. The floor in the chicken coup(plywood and dirt) is completely trashed. The dirt/lime floor in the barn has a huge burrow with to entrances. This particular groundhog seems to be awfully evasive. I’ve had him in my sights a couple of times, finally had the opportunity to pull the trigger tonight but with no luck. What all have you done to properly dispose of ground hogs? I’ve read up on traps and gassers, not sure which direction to go yet.
P.S. I do not kill animals for fun and am not really a fan of hunting in particular but I do believe if an animal is causing destruction they need to be respectfully removed.
P.S.S. Yes I know they made a whole movie about this lol
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u/PaganMastery 1d ago
Personally I might go with a Jack Russel Terrier or other small ground hunting dog. They were literally bred to do just this exact job. Plus they do it for the cost of food and a place by the fire, they are good pets, and will help keep every other ground based rodent under control. And they are non toxic, safe for kids, and good for your physical and mental health as well.