Identifying Garden Plant Eaters: Deer, Groundhogs, or Rabbits?

Narrowing the Suspects

Damage 6‑8 inches above ground with no droppings suggests deer (nocturnal) or groundhogs (diurnal). Rabbits feed lower and leave round pellets.

Identification Tips

• Look for deer tracks in soft soil.
• Groundhogs are active daytime; you may see them.
• Live‑trap rabbits/groundhogs with cage traps.
• For deer, use electronic deterrents (see DC Jincks’ site).