Identifying Burrowing Animal by Droppings & Hole in Texas

Question: Rural N. Central TX (near OK border). Large hole under shop foundation. 3-inch crescent-shaped droppings, black smear. Dogs smell faint skunk odor. Three dogs hunt but can't catch. What is it?

Answer: Too Many Variables—Use Systematic ID

Step 1: Self-Guided Inspection

ICWDM Inspection Tool – identifies by holes, feces, damage.

Step 2: Precision Needed

• Measure hole dimensions exactly
• Note hole characteristics (shape, soil distribution)
• Smell is unreliable: opossums also smell skunky; hole digger ≠ current occupant

Step 3: Narrow Possibilities

After inspection, we can discuss specific species (skunk, armadillo, groundhog, etc.) and legal controls.