This page provides problem-solving advice and ways to make your yard less attractive to woodchucks in the first place.
For more information on these mammals, including what they eat and where they live in the forest preserves, visit the main woodchucks page.
The best way to prevent a woodchuck from establishing a den in your yard is to keep it away from attractive areas in the first place. Use welded wire to block access to crawl spaces and areas under decks, sheds, patios and porches.
If a woodchuck has already established a den, try the techniques below, preferably two or three at the same time. After a few days, pack crumpled newspaper into the entrance. If the woodchuck is still there, it will pull the paper out. If the paper stays in place for a few days, repair any openings.
Woodchucks are not a public health concern. It’s rare for them to carry rabies, and there have not been any reports in DuPage County in recent years.
Dens
How to Make Your Yard Less Attractive
What You Should Never Do
Public Health Concerns
If you find a wild animal that looks injured or orphaned, leave it alone and call the Forest Preserve District's Willowbrook Wildlife Center at 630-942-6200. Recordings offer general advice when the center is closed.
Or visit the wildlife rescue advice page.
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Fish
Frogs, Turtles, Snakes & More
Insects, Spiders, Crayfish & More
Mammals
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Living With Wildlife
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Coyotes
Eastern Cottontails
Mallards & Geese
Opossums
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Tree Squirrels
White-Tailed Deer
Woodpeckers
Banner image by Mark Moschell/CC BY-NC 2.0
3S580 Naperville Road
Wheaton, IL 60189
630-933-7200
forest@dupageforest.org
Monday – Friday
8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The Forest Preserve District is committed to making its facilities accessible to all visitors. Contact 630-933-7683 or TTY 800-526-0857.