Best Bait to Trap a Groundhog

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Dealing with a groundhog problem is something that will usually require some kind of trapping, using either lethal or live cage traps, and in most cases these traps are more likely to be successful when they are combined with an effective bait. Most people will already be frustrated that the garden is being raided for food by the animals, but when you are baiting the trap it is just a little food to help resolve the problem. The important thing to remember is that bait is only a part of the trapping process, and factors such as trap location and disguise can have an even more important role in the success of the trap.



Fruit

The truth is that the food the groundhogs are stealing from your garden is usually among the most successful bait, and fruit is definitely on the list of food that can be used to catch groundhogs. The type of fruit that will be most successful is usually soft and sweet, with strawberries, peaches and cantaloupe all often having success when it comes to catching a groundhog. Some people will also use a sweet smell such as vanilla extract which is placed on a piece of bread or fruit which can also be effective.

Vegetables

Groundhogs are a big pest when they get into a vegetable garden, but their enthusiasm for eating vegetables can also be your friend when it comes to trying to catch the pesky little animals. They have a great appetite for fresh produce and peas, string beans, lettuce and sweetcorn can be another successful combination when trying to catch a groundhog. It is also important to make sure that when you are placing your trap, the bait lies far enough inside the cage or behind the trap to make it impossible for the animal to get the food without triggering the trap.

The Importance Of Location And Trap Type

Location is usually considered to be the most important factor when you are catching a groundhog, and you should think about this before you place your trap. With a lethal body grip trap, these should be placed directly over an exit hole used by the groundhog, and you should make sure it is sturdy and strong enough to kill the animal humanely. With a cage trap, make sure that it is in a high traffic area near the entrance to the burrow, and try to keep handling to a minimum to reduce the human scent on the cage.

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