Knowledgebase

What's infesting my yard!? #928806

Asked April 18, 2026, 1:51 PM EDT

This has been quickly spreading, every day in my yard. I don't know what's happening, but it's going to kill my entire lawn. What's happening?

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hi,

This looks like damage from animals digging in the grass. Raccoons and skunks are active at night, but crows and other birds will also dig in lawns. See these pages:

https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-news/whats-digging-your-yard#:~:text=May%2015%2C%202024,are%20seeing%20in%20Minnesota%20lawns.

https://extension.umd.edu/resource/animals-digging-lawns/

https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/managing-skunk-and-raccoon-damage-lawns#:~:text=Start%20by%20replacing%20any%20flipped,found%20in%20the%20resources%20below:

You may need to reseed this area when it gets warmer. The Iowa State page has a link to how to do that.

Hope this helps.

MJ Replied April 19, 2026, 8:54 AM EDT
THANK YOU! That’s what it’s looking like because I’m only seeing grass torn up but no deep digging, or tunneling. 

I just haven’t seen any worms or grubs, but maybe that’s because they’ve already feasted by the time that I check in the morning.
-Lauri

On Sun, Apr 19, 2026 at 7:54 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied April 19, 2026, 9:50 AM EDT

You’re welcome Lauri! 

MJ Replied April 19, 2026, 10:08 AM EDT

Loading ...