Groundhog (Woodchuck)
Facts: Woodchucks are very shy and timid. They are generally active during the day and are seen more in the beginning of spring when they start to find food after waking up from hybernating. They are burrowers and love to live under decks and porches.
Problem:
Woodchuck falling over and circling: While many will assume it is rabid, this is most likely a roundworm (parasite) infection. If you see an animal that appears to be injured or sick, call your local animal control.
Woodchuck burrowing under house/porch/shed/garage: Woodchucks are natural burrowers. Generally they dug one to raise babies and then get fat to hybernate. It is best to just let them be until late summer so they can raise young. If they must be evicted, dirty cat litter mixed with the dirt at the entrance to the burrow is effective.
Woodchuck raiding the garden: The best thing is to fence it off. A roll of 4 foot green garden mesh or a standard roll of chick wire and stakes is sufficent. Bury the bottom foot in an L pattern with the top (3 foot high fence with 1 foot at the bottom coming straight out). Place stakes to hold it up but make the fence kind of wobbly to discourage the woodchuck from climbing it. You can also place dirty cat litter at the edge of the 1 foot mark to add an extra layer of protection