Groundhog Burrow Under Pool Deck: Exclusion and Trapping

Groundhog (woodchuck) burrow under pool deck in PA—half-eaten hosta nearby. PA law requires euthanasia of trapped groundhogs (rabies vector).

Exclusion (Permanent Fix)

• Fence with buried skirt: 4-ft tall welded wire, buried 12", bent outward 18" at bottom. Top 12" bent outward at 45° to prevent climbing.
• Alternative: Steel stakes: Drive 12"+ rebar 2" apart around burrow (2' past hole) to block digging. Check for utilities first!

Trapping

• Use cage trap at burrow entrance baited with cantaloupe or apple.
• Euthanize per PA law (relocation illegal).
• Then install exclusion.

What Doesn't Work

Ammonia, mothballs, coyote urine, motor oil (illegal, pollutes groundwater).

Exclusion + legal trapping is the only reliable, permanent solution.