digging critter problem

[Gadgetman]

Live in the country on a lake and have something that keeps digging fairly big holes (big enough to put a basketball in) around the shrubs that are planted next to my foundation. I am pretty sure it isnt my lab, but not 100%. I strongly suspect that it is a coon as I have seen/shot many over the years. I suppose it could also be a wood chuck as I have had them living in my boulder walls a couple of times. What do you guys think it might be? I have bought a live trap and am wondering what would be the best bait. It seems that as fast as they dig the holes I fill them back in a couple of days later the same hole reappears. I have put concrete blocks on the places they dig but they just move over and dig some more - dont really care to have a bunch of black laying around my house either. I need some suggestions please!

[Grayfox]

I'd put a game camera on it and you'll know for sure!

Rob

[HunterLee]

badger?? Could also be woodchucks. Try something sweet first for the woodchucks

[USDA3]

Are the holes completed? What I mean by that is, do they stop a foot or so down, or so they keep going? Also how many of them are they? Badger tend to dig many holes as they are searching for critters to eat. So many of there holes are a few inches to a foot or so. Where as a chuck hole you won't be able to see its the end. My guess is a woodchuck with how you've described them.

[Gadgetman]

I wish I had a friend with a trail cam, dont really want to buy one for this problem. The holes are only a foot or so deep and never get much more than that. There have been several (2-3) but usually only one. the weird part is I fill it in, they dig it back out. I fill it in they dig it back out. I also found a small plastic container with rotten stuff in it buried in a corner. the job was too neat for my dog to have done, hence the coon conclusion. What should I put in the trap to get these guys? and by the way which one is best, the one open on both ends or the model that is open on only one end? thanks guys

[Bear55]

I am think it is your dog for sure, my lab is a notorious digger and just about always digs near the house next to a retaining wall or foundation. One time she even went 5+ feed underground after a gopher. I can't seem to get her to stop so we just keep playing the hole filling game.

[winniewalleye777]

Try putting pepper or dog [PoorWordUsage] on or around where the dog is digging. That usually stops my lab

[creepworm]

Could also be a badger. Getting more of them every year in central MN.

[merkman]

What should I put in the trap to get these guys?

I would suggest a small plastic container with rotten stuff in it.

I like the trail cam idea too.

Too bad you didn't know someone who had one.

Some rental places rent live traps.

I don't know of any rental places that rent trail cams.