If your plants, trees, or garden beds are mysteriously damaged, you might be dealing with rabbits, groundhogs, or deer. Each of these animals leaves behind unique signs that can help you figure out which one is responsible.
This guide from Nature and Wildlife Solutions breaks down the damage patterns, severity, and identifying signs of these three common garden and landscape pests.
Rabbit Damage
What they damage:
- Tender shoots
- Bark of young trees and shrubs (especially in winter)
- Vegetable gardens: lettuce, carrots, beans
Damage signs:
- Clean, angled cuts on stems and leaves (caused by sharp incisors)
- Girdling of young trees near the base
- Small, round pellet-like droppings
- Damage occurs close to the ground
Seasonality:
- Year-round, but especially destructive in late winter when food is scarce
Severity:
- Moderate: Can kill young trees by girdling
Groundhog (Woodchuck) Damage
What they damage:
- Broadleaf plants
- Vegetable gardens: peas, beans, broccoli
- Occasionally flowers
Damage signs:
- Large, irregular bites taken from plants
- Extensive burrowing near gardens, decks, and sheds
- Large entrance holes (10–12” wide) with visible dirt mounds
- Flattened vegetation trails from frequent travel paths
Seasonality:
- Spring through fall; groundhogs hibernate in winter
Severity:
- Moderate to high: Burrowing under structures can cause significant damage
Deer Damage
What they damage:
- Trees (buds and twigs)
- Shrubs and flowers
- Crops and vegetable gardens
Damage signs:
- Ragged/torn foliage or stems (due to lack of upper incisors)
- Browsing damage up to 6 feet high
- Rub marks and bark stripping from antlers on young trees
- Large hoof prints and larger droppings
Seasonality:
- Year-round, peaking in spring and fall
Severity:
- High: Repeated browsing can stunt or kill plants
🔍 Summary Comparison Table
| Feature | Rabbit | Groundhog | Deer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Damage Height | Low (under 2 feet) | Low to mid (1–2 feet) | High (up to 6 feet) |
| Bite Type | Clean, angled cuts | Rough, irregular bites | Ragged tears |
| Key Signs | Bark girdling, pellets | Burrows, wide holes, flattened trails | Hoof prints, antler rubs, ragged foliage |
| Plant Preference | Veggies, young trees, flowers | Veggies, broadleaf plants | Trees, shrubs, flowers, garden crops |
| Seasonality | Year-round | Spring–Fall | Year-round (peak spring/fall) |
| Severity | Moderate | Moderate–High | High |