Millions of Americans partake in the ‘Groundhog Day’ tradition, but should groundhogs really be anything to admire or celebrate? Perhaps a closer look at the types of problems these animals can cause will enlighten you.
Groundhogs are the largest-known member of the squirrel family of animals, and much like beavers, they have long, sharp teeth that grow quickly and need to be maintained by gnawing on things. Groundhogs are known for gnawing through things they shouldn’t, such as electrical wiring harnesses in cars and hoses used for watering gardens.
Groundhogs also enjoy burrowing beneath the Earth’s surface, and these burrows can reach mind-boggling sizes. Groundhog burrows are known to harm crops, weaken home foundations, and engulf farm equipment, and each of these circumstances tend to result in costly repairs.
Despite their small size, groundhogs are also notoriously social and aren’t afraid to get up close and personal with humans; this can quickly become a problem since groundhogs can carry rabies. Given the circumstances, it isn't advised that you interact with wild groundhogs, and if you’re forced into a predicament with one, it’s best to contact animal control and let the professionals handle the situation.
