Knowledgebase

Mysterious Lawn Attacks #865863

Asked April 25, 2024, 11:37 AM EDT

We have lived a block from Como Park for 14 years, between the park and the fairgrounds. This year we are seeing our front lawn being torn up in a way that we have not experienced before. It started with about half the yard and is spreading. The surface is being dug up. Perhaps at night. We’re not sure. The affected areas are now a terrain of shallow holes and small dirt piles. We have no trees in our front yard. A few bushes and shrubs, but the damage is not occurring near them. Our neighborhood is always full of squirrels and chipmunks, of course, but it’s hard to think that this is being caused by them. They haven’t done anything like this in the past. I am attaching three photos. They don’t do a good job of showing what’s going on. I would have added some different views, but it looks like three is the limit. I hope these help. Do you have any thoughts? Thanks much. Gary Lee Joyner

Ramsey County Minnesota

Expert Response

Gary, That damage is typically happening at night. Very likely skunks. Or it could also be raccoons. Either case they are digging up grubs. Not much you can do other than piece the lawn back together as best you can and once the grass is growing strong it hopefully will fill in.

Paul 

Master Gardener volunteer

An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 25, 2024, 6:40 PM EDT

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