Quick Answer
In Illinois, the most common yard diggers are thirteen-lined ground squirrels, eastern moles, striped skunks, raccoons, coyotes (in urban and suburban Chicago), and nine-banded armadillos in southern Illinois. Thirteen-lined ground squirrels create 2-3 inch burrow holes in open lawns. Skunks and raccoons dig for grubs at night. Coyotes dig large holes in pursuit of prey. Armadillos are expanding into southern Illinois from the south.
Identifying Yard-Digging Wildlife in Illinois
Illinois spans a remarkable ecological transition, from the tallgrass prairies of the central and northern regions to the cypress swamps and hardwood forests of the south. This diversity of habitats supports a wide range of digging and burrowing animals. Illinois homeowners must contend with everything from the tiny thirteen-lined ground squirrel of the prairies to the large coyotes that have adapted to urban life in Chicago and its suburbs. The nine-banded armadillo, once restricted to the Gulf Coast states, is now a regular sight in southern Illinois counties.
This guide is based on data from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), University of Illinois Extension wildlife publications, and the Urban Coyote Research Project in Chicago.
Key Identification Tip: Before you identify the specific animal, determine whether your holes have mounds or not. Holes WITH mounds are typically from pocket gophers or ground squirrels. Holes WITHOUT mounds are from armadillos, skunks, raccoons, or moles. Raised surface tunnels with no visible entrance = moles. This single distinction eliminates half the possibilities immediately.
Illinois Yard-Digging Animal Identification Table
| Animal | Hole Size & Shape | Depth | Damage Pattern | Illinois Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel | 2-3 inch round entrance; small dirt apron | 2-4 feet deep | Small burrow holes in open lawns; standing upright at burrow entrance; eaten garden plants | Statewide; most common in central and northern Illinois prairies |
| Eastern Mole | Raised ridges; volcano-shaped mounds; no visible hole | 3-12 inches (surface tunnels) | Raised tunnels crisscrossing lawn; soft, spongy turf; volcano-shaped mounds | Statewide except urban centers |
| Striped Skunk | Conical holes, 2-3 inch diameter | 2-4 inches (foraging) | Small scattered holes in lawn; often in a line pattern; faint skunk odor | Statewide |
| Raccoon | Conical holes, 3-4 inch; torn-up sod patches | 2-4 inches (surface foraging) | Large patches of rolled-back sod; overturned trash; damaged bird feeders | Statewide; abundant in urban and suburban areas |
| Coyote | 6-12 inch irregular holes; large den entrances | 3-6 feet deep (dens) | Large holes dug in pursuit of rodents; den entrances in wooded areas or embankments | Statewide; increasingly common in Chicago metro area |
| Nine-banded Armadillo | Cone-shaped holes, 2-3 inches; rooting patches | 2-5 inches (foraging) | Multiple small conical holes; rooting under mulch; disturbed flower beds | Southern Illinois; expanding northward |
| Pocket Gopher | Fan-shaped dirt mound; plugged entrance hole | 6-12 inches (feeding tunnels) | Crescent-shaped mounds of fine soil; plugged holes; plants dying from root damage | Statewide where soil allows; less common in heavy clay soils |
| Meadow Vole | Tiny 1-inch holes; surface runways | Surface to 2 inches deep | Visible runways through grass; girdled tree trunks at base; damaged plant roots | Statewide |
Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrels: Illinois' Prairie Digger
The thirteen-lined ground squirrel (Ictidomys tridecemlineatus) is arguably the most characteristic digging animal of Illinois. Named for the 13 alternating light and dark stripes running down its back, this small ground squirrel is a true prairie species that has adapted well to Illinois lawns, golf courses, cemeteries, and parks. They are diurnal and highly visible, often standing upright at their burrow entrances or sitting on fence posts.
Their burrows are 2-3 inches in diameter with a small fan-shaped dirt apron at the entrance. Unlike moles, the entrance hole is open and visible. Each squirrel maintains a burrow system 2-4 feet deep with multiple chambers for nesting, food storage, and waste. In Illinois lawns, they create networks of burrow entrances that can be a tripping hazard and a nuisance for mowing.
Thirteen-lined ground squirrels are true hibernators in Illinois. They enter hibernation in October and emerge in late March or early April. Their active season is short but intense, and during this time they can cause significant damage to gardens by eating seeds, seedlings, and ripening vegetables. They are classified as nongame mammals in Illinois and can be controlled on private property without a permit. University of Illinois Extension recommends trapping as the most effective control method.
Coyotes in Urban Chicago
Perhaps no animal better illustrates the changing face of Illinois wildlife than the coyote (Canis latrans). Coyotes have adapted remarkably to urban and suburban environments across Illinois, particularly in the Chicago metropolitan area. The Urban Coyote Research Project, based at Ohio State University with field sites in Chicago, has documented that Cook County alone is home to an estimated 2,000-4,000 coyotes living in highly urbanized areas, including downtown Chicago.
Coyotes dig holes primarily for two reasons: denning and hunting. Denning holes are 6-12 inches in diameter and are typically located in wooded areas, drainage ditches, or under sheds. Hunting holes are smaller and more irregular, dug when a coyote pursues a ground squirrel, vole, or other burrowing rodent. Unlike the scattered foraging holes of skunks and raccoons, coyote digging is focused and purposeful, often resulting in a single large excavation.
While coyotes are generally wary of humans, conflicts can occur when they become habituated to human food sources. IDNR advises homeowners to secure trash, remove outdoor pet food, and install motion-activated lighting to deter coyotes. Fencing should be at least 6 feet tall and extend 12 inches underground to prevent digging under. Coyotes in Illinois are classified as furbearers and can be trapped during the regulated season, but in urban areas, local ordinances may restrict lethal control methods.
Nine-banded Armadillos in Southern Illinois
The nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) has been expanding its range northward for decades, and southern Illinois now represents the northern edge of its expanding range. Armadillos are regularly reported in counties south of Interstate 64, including Alexander, Jackson, Union, Johnson, Pope, and Massac counties. Sightings as far north as the St. Louis metro area have been confirmed in recent years.
Armadillos dig numerous small conical holes, 2-3 inches wide and 2-5 inches deep, as they forage for insects, grubs, and earthworms. They are particularly destructive in flower beds and mulched areas, where they root through the soil in search of food. Unlike ground squirrels, armadillos are nocturnal and their damage appears overnight. Unlike skunks and raccoons, armadillo holes are deeper and more numerous, often covering a large area in a single night.
Armadillos are not protected under Illinois wildlife regulations and can be trapped or removed without a permit. However, they are not classified as a game species, so there is no regulated hunting or trapping season. Homeowners should be aware that armadillos can carry leprosy (Hansen's disease), though transmission to humans is extremely rare. Exclusion fencing angled outward at 45 degrees is the most effective long-term deterrent, as armadillos are poor climbers on overhanging surfaces.
Pocket Gophers in Illinois
Pocket gophers (Geomys bursarius, the plains pocket gopher) are found throughout Illinois wherever soils are sandy or loamy enough to support tunneling. They are less common in the heavy clay soils of central and northern Illinois but can be abundant in the sandy soils of the Illinois River Valley and along the Mississippi River. Pocket gophers are often confused with moles, but the key difference is the shape of the mound: gopher mounds are fan-shaped with a plugged hole, while mole mounds are volcano-shaped.
Gophers feed on plant roots and can kill large ornamental shrubs and trees by eating their root systems. A single gopher can create 1-5 mounds per day during active periods. Unlike moles, gophers are herbivores and their feeding damage is direct and often fatal to plants. Pocket gophers are classified as nongame mammals in Illinois and can be controlled without a permit. The most effective control methods are trapping (Macabee traps in main tunnels) and exclusion (buried hardware cloth around garden beds).
Seasonal Digging Patterns in Illinois
| Season | Most Active Diggers | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar-May) | Ground squirrels, moles, skunks, armadillos | Ground squirrels emerge from hibernation; moles active in moist soil; skunks dig for grubs; armadillos active after winter |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Raccoons, coyotes, ground squirrels | Raccoons with young dig heavily; coyotes hunt for young rodents; ground squirrels cache food |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | Moles, armadillos, pocket gophers | Mole surface tunnels reappear with fall rains; armadillos forage heavily before winter; gophers active in cooler soil |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Moles (deep), voles (surface) | Moles tunnel below frost line; voles active under snow cover (subnivean runways) |
How to Get Rid of Animals Digging in Your Illinois Yard
1. Reduce Grub Populations
Grubs are a primary food source for skunks and raccoons in Illinois. Treat your lawn with beneficial nematodes (Heterorhabditis bacteriophora) in late summer (August to early September) when soil temperatures are above 60°F. Milky spore is effective in Illinois but may take 2-3 years to establish. Chemical grub controls (imidacloprid, chlorantraniliprole) can be applied in June-July. University of Illinois Extension recommends a integrated pest management approach, combining biological and chemical controls for best results.
2. Exclusion Fencing
For ground squirrels, use 1/2-inch mesh fencing buried 12 inches deep with an L-shaped footer. For armadillos, a 2-foot fence angled outward at 45 degrees is effective. For coyotes in urban areas, install 6-foot fencing with a roller bar or coyote roller at the top to prevent climbing. For raccoons, secure trash cans with locking lids and install chimney caps. Use 1/4-inch hardware cloth around garden beds and tree trunks to exclude voles.
3. Live Trapping
Live traps are effective for ground squirrels, raccoons, and armadillos in Illinois. Use small traps (5x5x16-inch) for ground squirrels baited with sunflower seeds or peanut butter. Use larger traps (10x12x32-inch) for raccoons and armadillos, baited with canned fish, marshmallows, or overripe fruit. Illinois law requires that traps be checked at least once every 24 hours. Relocating trapped animals in Illinois requires a permit from IDNR. Without a permit, trapped animals must be euthanized.
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4. Habitat Modification
Remove brush piles, rock piles, and tall grass that provide cover for ground squirrels, skunks, and coyotes. Keep grass mowed short. Remove bird feeders at night to avoid attracting raccoons. Seal foundation gaps and install chimney caps. In Illinois, pay special attention to sealing gaps around basement windows and foundation vents. For coyote deterrence, install motion-activated lights and sprinklers, and never leave pet food or small pets unattended outdoors.
5. Professional Wildlife Removal
For persistent or dangerous infestations, professional wildlife removal services are recommended. Licensed wildlife control operators in Illinois are permitted by IDNR to trap and remove nuisance animals. Professional Illinois wildlife removal services typically cost between $200 and $700 depending on the animal species, the complexity of the job, and whether exclusion work is included. Coyote removal in urban areas is more complex and often costs $400-$700. Always verify that the company holds a valid IDNR nuisance wildlife control permit.
Illinois-Specific Regulations
- Thirteen-lined ground squirrels: Classified as nongame mammals. May be controlled on private property without a permit. Trapping is the recommended method. No closed season.
- Coyotes: Classified as both a furbearer and a nongame species. May be taken year-round on private property with a valid hunting or trapping license during the open season. Outside of season, landowners may take nuisance coyotes on their property. In urban areas, check local ordinances before taking action.
- Striped skunks and raccoons: Classified as furbearers. Trapping during the regulated season (November 5 through January 20 in most of Illinois) requires a valid fur trapper license. Outside of season, landowners may take nuisance animals on their property. Relocation requires a permit from IDNR.
- Eastern moles and pocket gophers: No protection. Can be trapped or killed on private property without a permit year-round. No closed season.
- Nine-banded armadillos: No protection in Illinois. Not classified as a game species. Can be trapped or removed without a permit. No regulated season.
- Meadow voles: No protection. Can be controlled with traps or rodenticides on private property. Follow all label directions for rodenticide use.
FAQ: Illinois Yard Digging
What is digging small holes in my Illinois lawn at night?
Small conical holes appearing overnight in your Illinois lawn are most likely from striped skunks or raccoons digging for white grubs. Skunk holes are 2-3 inches in diameter and scattered across the lawn. Raccoon damage involves larger patches of rolled-back sod. In southern Illinois, nine-banded armadillos also dig small conical holes at night — armadillo holes are typically deeper and more numerous than skunk holes. Check for a faint skunk odor or scattered trash to distinguish between these animals.
Are armadillos common in Illinois?
Armadillos are becoming increasingly common in southern Illinois, particularly in counties south of Interstate 64 (Alexander, Jackson, Union, Johnson, Pope, Massac, and Pulaski counties). They have been expanding their range northward and are now occasionally reported as far north as the St. Louis metro area. They are not yet established in northern Illinois but their range is expanding steadily. IDNR expects armadillo populations to continue growing in the southern third of the state.
How do I get rid of thirteen-lined ground squirrels in my Illinois yard?
Thirteen-lined ground squirrels can be live-trapped using small traps (5x5x16-inch) baited with sunflower seeds, peanut butter, or rolled oats. Place traps near active burrow entrances. Exclusion fencing buried 12 inches deep with an L-shaped footer is effective for protecting garden beds. Habitat modification — keeping grass mowed short and removing seed sources — makes your yard less attractive. Ground squirrels are nongame mammals in Illinois and can be controlled without a permit. University of Illinois Extension also recommends flooding burrows as a non-lethal deterrent, but this is a temporary solution.
What is digging holes in my yard at night in Illinois?
Nocturnal digging in Illinois is most commonly caused by raccoons, striped skunks, and Virginia opossums. In southern Illinois, nine-banded armadillos are an additional nocturnal digger. Raccoons are the most destructive, pulling back sod in large sheets. Skunks create smaller conical holes. Armadillos dig numerous small, deep conical holes in a scattered pattern. Diurnal (daytime) digging is typically from thirteen-lined ground squirrels or pocket gophers. If you see an animal digging during the day, it is almost certainly a ground squirrel, not a nocturnal species.
Are coyotes dangerous in Illinois yards?
Coyotes in Illinois, particularly in the Chicago area, have adapted to urban environments and are generally wary of humans. However, they can become habituated if food sources are available. Coyotes in Illinois yards are most commonly looking for rodents, fallen fruit, or pet food left outdoors. To reduce coyote conflicts, secure trash, remove outdoor pet food, install motion-activated lighting, and never intentionally feed coyotes. If a coyote approaches you, make yourself look large, make loud noises, and throw objects in its direction. Report aggressive coyote behavior to your local IDNR office or animal control agency.
Sources: Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), University of Illinois Extension, Urban Coyote Research Project. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional wildlife management advice. Always verify current regulations with IDNR before taking wildlife control action.