Relentless diggers, woodchucks can destroy a home’s landscaping. These furry rodents create mounds of dirt as they burrow through your yard. If you’re not familiar with their behaviors and habits, it can be difficult to pinpoint if these herbivores have infiltrated your property Here are a few signs you should call a woodchuck removal specialist.

4 Signs of Woodchuck Damage

1. Tree Bark Scraping

Woodchucks like to sharpen their claws on tree bark. They also use the bark to file down their long teeth and mark their territory. Look for exposed areas on trees in your yard, especially fruit and pruned trees. If you notice this issue on multiple trees, reach out to a woodchuck removal expert. 

2. Chewed Vegetables & Fruits

If you notice half-eaten fruits and vegetables in your garden, a woodchuck may be the culprit. The rodents are herbivores, so they consume large amounts of grass, leaves, and twigs. Some of their favorites are strawberries, blueberries, apples, peas and lettuce.

3. Paw Prints

Woodchucks have four toes on their front paws and five on their back paws. As they walk, the rodents leave paw prints that are roughly four to 12 inches wide. Their sharp claws will typically leave clearly visible tracks around gardens, trees, and grass. 

4. Underground Cable Damage

If you can see underground telephone and utility cables, look for damage. Woodchucks are notorious for gnawing through the thick wires with their strong teeth. This can be dangerous for you, as damaged underground cables can trigger gas leaks or cause power outages. They also commonly chew on irrigation tubing, which can damage the system. 

American Bio-Tech Wildlife Services in New Milford, CT, is the expert that homeowners and business owners use for safe woodchuck removal services. This locally owned business uses equipment and techniques that don’t harm the animals. Once captured, they are transported to the wild. If you suspect woodchucks are on your property, call (860) 355-1231 for an inspection. Go online for details on the company’s woodchuck removal services.