Which animal digs 3 - 4 inch, cone-shaped holes or patches of overturned sod looking for grubs?

The animal that digs 3-4 inch, cone-shaped holes or patches of overturned sod while searching for grubs is the skunk. Skunks have a particular foraging behavior that includes digging into the ground with their strong forelimbs to access insects, particularly grubs, which are a significant part of their diet. The distinctive shape of the holes they create, often resembling a cone, is a result of their digging style as they probe the soil to uncover these hidden food sources.

In contrast, other animals listed, such as raccoons, are more likely to dig in a more broad and random manner, typically looking for a variety of foods, not just grubs. Rats tend to burrow rather than dig holes primarily for foraging and nesting, usually creating larger tunnels. Opossums generally do not engage in the same digging behavior as skunks and are more scavengers than diggers. Understanding the specific behaviors and characteristics of these animals is essential for accurate identification based on their physical signs in the environment.