Locating Woodchuck (Marmota monax) Dens

The most efficient way to control a problem animal is to locate its den. Locating woodchuck dens gives you the advantage of knowing its travel and activity. In contrast, when you don’t know the location of the woodchuck den, then you have to rely on lures or chance to get access to the animal which substantially increases the time and effort needed to effect control.

Woodchucks are one animal where knowledge of its den site gives one a tremendous advantage. Access to den sites allows you to employ control techniques other than trapping and shooting. But to take advantage of this knowledge, you have to find the den. Here are some tips for locating woodchuck dens (Marmota monax).

Step 1 for Locating Woodchuck Dens

Inspect the area where you see woodchucks the most. Do they tend to flee in a certain direction? Are they lingering in a particular area? Do you see an area of grass that looks like it has been walked on more frequently than others?

Step 2 for Finding Groundhog Burrows

Understand woodchucks tend to be pretty particular where they establish a den so look for the following characteristics. If the den isn’t in an open field, then investigate areas containing structure, such as tree, rock, house, fallen log or bushes. They also like their dens to between within 50 feet of an open field so look carefully along the edge between the woods and the field. Finally, woodchucks like to dig their dens in drained soil. You won’t find them in swampy soil. Be careful where you walk because poison ivy also likes well-drained soil.

As you investigate these areas, keep an eye out for the dig out plume (called a porch) that lays before 1 of their holes. It is easily noticed because the soil color will often be different than the surrounding soil. Once this hole is discovered, look in a 30 foot radius range for a possible second hole. Look carefully, because this hole may lack a similar dig out plume or be hidden under a shed or stump etc.

If the hole is active you may even see flies circling around the opening. Generally, the holes are about 8 inches in diameter with a lot of dug out dirt at the entrance. This dirt plume is the tell-tale sign of a woodchuck den. Don’t be surprised if you don’t find a second hole. Newly dispersed woodchucks often don’t dig a second hole until they get older. If you can’t find a den then you are dealing with transient damage, i.e. the woodchucks are just using the area as a feeding station.

If you want to learn how to control woodchucks, get a copy of the Wildlife Removal Handbook, 3rd Ed. 

Stephen M. Vantassel, CWCP, ACE, is the owner of Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC. He helps people restore their balance with nature through publishing, training, consulting, and the internet. He has published numerous articles in trade and academic publications available at {Stephen’s Academia.edu Page} along with several books {WCC Store}). Listen to his podcast “Living the Wild Life” at {Pest Geek Podcast}. Please subscribe to {Stephen’s YouTube Channel} He is a sought after speaker and trainer. If you would like to have Stephen speak at your event or use his consultation services, send an e-mail to wildlifecontrolconsultant@gmail.com. Copyright All postings are the property of Stephen M. Vantassel and Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC. Text (not images) may be reprinted in non-profit publications provided that the author and website URL is included. If images wish to be used, explicit and written permission must be obtained from Wildlife Control Consultant, LLC.