Lawn rodent - Ask Extension
I have a nocturnal rodent/animal that is digging holes throughout the yard. I have a large yard on part of 5 acres. It is as if a squirrel was digging...
Knowledgebase
Lawn rodent #279797
Asked September 21, 2015, 7:41 PM EDT
I have a nocturnal rodent/animal that is digging holes throughout the yard. I have a large yard on part of 5 acres. It is as if a squirrel was digging up a nut and left the hole open. It is obviously digging for insects, grubs or turtle eggs. It digs through the grass as it searches. It is like a mole, only on the surface. (it is not a mole). My guesses would include a skunk or gray fox, of which we have both. I have lived here for 30 years and never experienced anything like it. Thoughts?
Dakota County Minnesota
Expert Response
As I looked over your pictures, it seems that the digging is small for skunks or raccoons. My first thought was squirrels, but I've seen birds (starlings) make similar holes.
It is interesting that it is right along the sidewalk. Could this be animals getting salt?
If there is a place with fresh digging, consider putting down some flour to see if you can capture some tracks.
http://icwdm.org/Inspection/Default.aspx
It is interesting that it is right along the sidewalk. Could this be animals getting salt?
If there is a place with fresh digging, consider putting down some flour to see if you can capture some tracks.
http://icwdm.org/Inspection/Default.aspx
