Usually, even a shallow hole in your backyard lawn can alert you to the presence of one or more pests. Whether it’s groundhogs, raccoons, skunks or moles, these animals may look cute, but they can cause significant damage to your lawn.
In this article, our pest management experts help you identify which animals are digging holes in your lawn and give you some tips on how to get rid of them.
Why do animals dig holes in your yard?
There are many reasons why certain pests dig in your yard. This is because animals like moles are looking for food, while ground wasps are looking for a place to hide and store food.
Some animals can make elaborate or simple burrows under your lawn, depending on the soil and how easy it is to dig. Holes can start and end in different places on your property. That’s why it’s important to notice these burrows so you can take appropriate action.
Different types of animals that dig holes
Whether animals or insects, there are many species that can dig holes in your lawn. Discover a list of the main hole digging pests below.
1. Marmots
Groundhogs or marmots are animals that are usually found near woods, fields and roadsides. They can enter a homeowner’s property and damage lawns by digging large holes in the ground.
It should be noted that groundhogs are very difficult to scare away naturally. They are smart and can dig and climb, so most fences will not stop them unless you bury the fence at least 10 cm deep in the ground. Sometimes their tunneling network can be very extensive and go under an entire area. This is why it is often necessary to take appropriate control measures by contacting a marmot exterminator.
2. Raccoons
Raccoons are mammals that, when fully grown, can range from 60 to 105 cm in length and weigh from 4 to 9 kg. These animals are good climbers and have sharp claws. They can enter your property and rummage through your garbage looking for food while causing significant damage.
In addition to scavenging your garbage, raccoons damage yards by digging holes in the grass and destroying flower beds. It is important to remember that raccoons are carriers of several diseases that can be transmitted to humans and their pets. Since it is not easy to catch a raccoon, we advise you to call our experts if you see one on your property!
3. Skunks
Skunks do not usually bother Quebec residents, but they can dig holes in people’s lawns. They look for insects to eat and sometimes dig through garbage cans. They can also dig under your home and damage pipes, wiring and the general structure of your home.
The skunk’s foul odor is easily recognizable, so you’ll know when they are nearby. Often attracted to gardens where fruits or vegetables are grown, it is recommended to protect these from the sight of pests. If you want to get rid of a skunk, proceed with caution or leave it to a professional exterminator.
4. Moles
Are there holes in your lawn measuring 30 and 60 cm and mounds of soil nearby? This may indicate the presence of moles in your yard. These animals live underground and create a network of underground tunnels that can weaken your soil.
It is not easy to get rid of a mole. It does not dig constantly and will live under your feet once its habitat is built. It will then try to feed on larvae and insects present in the soil. There are several solutions to keep them away from your home but capturing them remains the most effective way.
5. Birds
Surprisingly, your lawn can also be damaged by birds! Starlings and magpies tear up the lawn in search of food such as insects and worms. If this is the case, you should notice small patches of torn up grass in your yard.
In addition to tearing up your lawn, some birds like to eat the fruits and vegetables you grow. They take advantage of your absence to feed quickly and leave behind only their droppings, which are often infected with viruses. If you see birds nesting in your roof or digging in your lawn, contact us as soon as possible. We will take care of getting rid of birds for good.
6. Ground wasps
As their name implies, ground wasps find refuge in the soil to escape their predator and develop the colony quietly. Although they can use spaces left by moles or rodents, ground wasps will happily dig holes in homeowners’ lawns.
If you see wasps in your yard, be careful, especially if your children or pets are playing in the yard. It is best to set up a large perimeter around the insect nest and call a wasp exterminator to get rid of the ground wasps. They will be able to free you from the presence of these flying insects.
Get rid of animals digging in your lawn with Elite Pest Control
At Elite Pest Control, we have the experience and skills to free your yard from animals digging holes in it and from pests hiding in your home. Our specialists are available all throughout Quebec to get rid of your infestation.
To learn more, contact us today for a free estimate or give us a call. Our exterminators in Montreal will be happy to answer you as soon as possible.
