Which Animals Dig Holes in the Yard?
They’ll be familiar with local wildlife laws and know what your next steps should be.
Always double-check to follow local and state laws when it comes to pest removal!
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The term ‘rodents’ doesn’t just apply to mice and rats, and rodents come with risks.
Chipmunks
Chipmunksare small rodents that bring a burst of energy to any backyard.
Physically, chipmunks have:
Chipmunks prefer to nest and hang out in wooded areas.
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They are mostly ground dwellers but often climb trees (and homes) looking for food and protection.
They will dig in the yard to nest but are likely in search of food.
Chipmunks are known fordigging up and eating insects, freshly planted seeds, and bulbs.
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Atsuo Kurimoto/EyeEm
Rats or Mice
The primary reason thatrats and miceburrow in yards is for nesting.
They like to seek shelter and warmth below ground.
The problem with this?
A mouse emerges from its burrow.Robert Trevis-Smith
Rodents like rats and mice are very sensitive to airflow.
Rodents only need small spaces (as small as a dime!)
From there, they can go from a minor problem to a full-grown infestation in little time.
A juvenile rat emerges from a hidden burrow in the grass.Amith Nag Photography
Finally, stay away from spray foam!
This will keep pests outside where they belong!
Not only do they dig shallow burrows and runways, but they’ll damage the vegetation as they go.
Andrés Pérez Wittmann
Address voles quickly with the help of a pro.
Molesare seldom seen in the daylight, as they spend all of their time digging underground.
When they do come out, their dark-colored fur keeps them well camouflaged amongst the dirt.
Paul Starosta
Even though their damage can be extensive, moles are very territorial.
To discourage rabbits, start by clearing debris and low-lying brush from your property.
Once rabbit hiding spots have been cleared away, consider installing enclosures to keep rabbits out for good.
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Often found in wooded areas near rivers or ponds, armadillos are known for quick and destructive burrowing habits.
They can make quick work of digging long burrows under your lawn.
These burrows can be up to 15 feet long and can even cause pathways and sidewalks to collapse!
Enrique Aguirre Aves
Start by asking yourself whether the holes look like burrowing holes or foraging holes.
What Causes Animals to Dig in the Yard?
The answer to this question depends on the activity you’re seeing.
Some of the activity is unavoidable, especially as animals like squirrels forage for food in preparation for winter.
Some damage, however, is far more extensive and becomes a repeated issue.
Coexisting with Garden Wildlife.UFL Extension
Raccoon Damage Identification.Internet Center for Wildlife Damage Management
Armadillos.Wildlife Damage Management
