Groundhog removal costs $150 to $300 on average. Fumigation, repellants, and lethal traps are the cheapest removal methods. A lethal trap costs $120 to $220 each while a live trap and relocation service costs $200 to $350 per groundhog.

Groundhogs are considered a "nuisance wildlife" that is legal to hunt and dispose of in some states, depending on if they have overpopulated the area or not.

Signs that you have a groundhog problem include:

• Large holes in your yard from 10" to 12" wide, next to mounds of dirt
• Disappearance of plants and vegetables in your garden
• Damage to structures like fences or sheds
• A foundation that appears to be sinking near the holes in your yard

To determine if groundhogs are still occupying a hole, place a few sticks at the entrance and check within a day or two to see if the sticks have moved.

Don't remove groundhogs yourself without professional assistance. Groundhogs may become dangerous if they feel threatened, and various laws dictate how they must be treated. Professionals have the expertise to catch them in ways that neither harm the animals nor cause property damage.

Simply filling in the hole won't eliminate a groundhog problem, as they are capable of digging a new tunnel around any blocked entrance.

Groundhogs typically don't initiate attacks toward humans. A groundhog is most likely to fear humans and will likely flee if they encounter you.

However, if a groundhog feels cornered or threatened, it may bite or scratch in self-defense, and it's worth noting that these wild animals can carry diseases. To ensure safety, keep a respectful distance.

A groundhog typically won't kill a dog, but it can defend itself if threatened. With sharp claws and teeth, a groundhog can cause injury. To protect your dog from potential harm or diseases that a groundhog may carry, it's wise to keep them separated.

Conversely, some hunting dogs with strong fighting instincts will kill groundhogs, so supervise your pets carefully in these situations.

Find someone experienced in groundhog removal by calling:

• A professional wildlife removal service
• Wildlife trapping specialists
• Extermination companies (in cities where poisoning is legal)

Before calling a wildlife removal service near you, be sure to:

• Get price lists from 3 people with 5+ years of experience.
• Check what people say about them on Google and here on HomeGuide.
• Verify their wildlife management license and liability insurance.
• Beware of the lowest prices that indicate poor-quality services.
• Keep a copy of their terms of service, warranties, and the estimate.
• Don't make a final payment until after they've finished the job.

Consider asking these questions to help you select the right company:

• How many years have you been relocating groundhogs?
• Could you describe the process you use for removal?
• Will you use humane methods?
• Do you offer any guarantees or warranties for your service?
• How is your pricing structured?
• What is the typical timeframe for a removal?
• When are you available to begin the project?
• May I have references from previous clients you've assisted?
• Do you provide cleanup services after the removal?
• What steps do you take to prevent future infestations?
• How will you ensure the protection of my property during the removal process?
• Are any additional services included in the quoted fee?
• Will you make follow-up inspections?