Groundhog burrow entrances: how many there are and how to find them
Updated
Direct answer
Groundhog burrows almost always have more than one entrance. Many homeowners only notice the main hole, but there is often at least one hidden escape exit. Missing these entrances is one of the most common reasons groundhog problems come back after DIY fixes.
Quick decision table
| What you see | What it likely means | Best next move |
|---|---|---|
| One large open hole in the yard | There may be hidden exits | Search perimeter before sealing |
| Fresh digging appears after filling | Missed escape entrance | Locate all openings first |
| Burrow near deck, shed, or fence | Likely multiple exits under cover | Consider professional exclusion |
Why groundhogs use multiple entrances
- Predator escape: a second exit provides a fast way out.
- Food access: different entrances lead to different feeding areas.
- Safety: avoids being trapped if one entrance collapses.
- Low visibility: escape holes are often hidden on purpose.
Common places to find hidden entrances
- Fence lines and corners
- Tall grass or brush piles
- Tree roots and hedge bases
- Under decks, sheds, or porches
- Along foundations or slab edges
How to find all entrances (simple method)
- Walk the area in a wide circle around the main hole.
- Check edges, cover, and shaded areas first.
- Smooth loose soil at suspected openings.
- Recheck in 24–48 hours for fresh digging.
- Repeat until no new disturbance appears.
Common mistakes
- Assuming there is only one hole.
- Sealing entrances without confirming inactivity.
- Ignoring fence lines and dense cover.
- Filling holes before exclusion is in place.
- Repairing soil or slabs before the burrow is fully addressed.
FAQ
How many entrances does a groundhog burrow have?
Many groundhog burrows have at least two entrances, and some have several. The extra holes are often smaller and intentionally hidden.
Why does my groundhog keep coming back?
The most common reason is a missed escape entrance. When one hole is sealed, the groundhog simply uses another exit or digs a new one.
When should I call a professional?
If the burrow is under a structure, near a foundation, or you can’t locate all entrances, professional wildlife control can prevent repeat damage.
Related pages
- Groundhog burrow entrances: how many there are and how to find themGroundhog burrows often have multiple hidden entrances. Learn how many holes to expect, where escape exits are usually located, and how to find them before sealing.
- How deep are groundhog burrows and what damage can they cause?Learn typical groundhog burrow depth and tunnel layout, the kinds of damage they cause near decks/sheds/foundations, and the safest order to fix the problem.
- Do mothballs, ammonia, or ultrasonic repellents work for groundhogs?Do mothballs, ammonia, and ultrasonic devices actually work for groundhogs? Learn why these repellents usually fail, what can be risky, and what works instead (exclusion + proper backfill).
- How to install an L-footer hardware cloth barrier to stop groundhogsA step-by-step guide to installing an L-footer (buried hardware cloth) to prevent groundhogs from digging under decks, sheds, and fences—plus common mistakes to avoid.
- How to tell if a groundhog burrow is activeLearn the simplest signs a groundhog burrow is currently in use, how to check safely, and when it’s safe to fill and exclude the hole.
Sources and assumptions
- General wildlife control best practices for burrow identification and exclusion.
- Groundhog behavior patterns involving escape routes and den safety.
- This page is informational and not a substitute for local wildlife regulations.