Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, can wreak havoc on gardens and homesteads. Their burrowing habits not only destroy crops but also pose risks to livestock and building foundations. If you're dealing with these persistent pests, a DIY snare might be your best solution.
Why Groundhogs Are a Problem
Groundhogs consume up to 3 pounds of vegetation daily and dig extensive tunnel systems that can stretch 40 feet from the main entrance. These tunnels often include separate chambers for sleeping, hibernation, and even a toilet. Their digging can lead to broken livestock legs and structural damage to buildings.
The Snare Solution
Instead of resorting to firearms or costly extermination methods, you can build an effective snare using inexpensive materials—many of which you may already have. This snare is humane, reusable, and versatile enough to catch other nuisance animals like raccoons, foxes, and opossums.
Materials Needed
- 5 feet of 7x7x3/32-inch cable
- 2 half-inch nuts
- 1 dime-sized flat washer
- 6 inches of #9 gauge wire
- 1 penny-sized flat washer
- 2–3 inches of #12 gauge wire
- 3 feet of #11 gauge wire
- 2 feet of ½-inch rebar stake
- Optional: #12 or #14 gauge wire for a snare restrictor
Step-by-Step Assembly
- Cable Stop: Slide a nut onto one end of the cable and flatten it with a hammer to prevent parts from slipping off.
- Washer: Add the dime washer to allow cable rotation and reduce kinks.
- Swivel: Twist #9 wire around a screwdriver handle and drill bit to form a swivel. Thread it onto the cable.
- Support Connector: Wrap #12 wire tightly around the cable and #11 wire to form a connector.
- Snare Lock: Drill a hole in the penny washer, bend it at a 90° angle, and thread the cable through to form a locking loop.
- Restrictor (Optional): Add a wire pinch to prevent the loop from tightening around large-hoofed animals.
- Snare Support: Coil #11 wire around a 5/8″ object to create a support arm.
Setting the Snare
Horizontal Setup: Place the loop slightly smaller than the burrow entrance and center it over the hole.
Vertical Setup: Open the loop to 6 inches and position it 2 inches above the ground outside the burrow.
Trap Maintenance & Safety
Check snares daily. If the loop is closed but no catch, reduce the loop size. Approach traps cautiously—trapped animals may be aggressive. A .22 short round is recommended for humane dispatch.
Bonus: Groundhog Meat
Groundhog meat is edible and tastes similar to squirrel. Older animals are best slow-cooked. With practice, you can turn snaring into a side hustle or barter service, helping others while supplementing your income and food supply.
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