Simply observe a burrow, favorite basking spot, ... legal and responsible wildlife control and damage prevention advice These large rodents can get up to 2 feet long and can weigh up to 14 pounds. These restrictions are among the most strict in the country, and have helped to control the illegal firearms market. Thank you for contacting the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. You can shoot woodchucks with a small to medium caliber rifle. Remember a woodchuck that has been shot but not killed can be much more aggressive and dangerous. Years ago, groundhogs could be found just about anywhere. A person may hunt woodchucks throughout the year. Nonresidents of Maryland who own property in the State and hunt on that property are required to purchase a Nonresident Hunting License. Mainly the question is with regard to using a semi-auto. Groundhogs have short, powerful legs with dark brown feet equipped with heavy claws specialized for digging. Discussion in 'NFA/ Tax Stamp required' started by GSRswapandslow, May 9, 2012. Their body is covered with grizzled, grayish brown fur down its back. Back home I killed garden raiding groundhogs with a .22 and a .410. I don't even know how to go about finding out if this is true. Unfortunately, the Maryland Department of Natural Resource’s Wildlife and Heritage Service (WHS) does not have the staff or resources to respond to every injured or distressed wildlife report. (Hint: Killing a few groundhogs for a farmer is a good way to get permission for other species.) A person that is hunting woodchucks in Baltimore and Frederick Counties are required to purchase a hunting license. Maryland gun laws are also very strict in regards to guns in public places, juvenile purchases (must be 21) and child safety locks present on all firearms. Once caught you can release at a park, if this is legal in your area or simply shoot them with a .22 pistol. ... woodchucks can be hunted most of the year with no daily or seasonal limits. I would use multiple traps, you can get a 2 pack at a tractor or farm store near you. That driver, Justyna Olkowska, said on the post that she was “soooo distraught!!!! Groundhogs can cause real problems for home vegetable and flower gardeners. WHS also does not rehabilitate wildlife, but they do administer permits for those interested in becoming licensed. Woodchuck is classified as an unprotected mammal. I can't imagine if it were true that the Game warden would tell you. Maryland self defense laws provide guidance about the situations in which a person who has been attacked can defend themselves. I set my traps on the outside of my fence since we have dogs. It is never legal to shoot anyone inless you are part of a government organisation such as the police or army and have orders to shoot