Birds? Rats?

I've had voles do that. I found holes in the dirt in my raised bed. They can climb straight upwards 8'.

Ground hog?

well I never identified the critter but I did spray hot pepper wax and it seems to be helping

thanks ya'all for your ideas
Dale

We had our very first voles ever this year -and- that looks just like the damage they did for us. The only reason we know for sure it was voles is because we saw them running across our driveway one night when we came in late. They took up residence in our raised bed. We gave them an eviction notice with some PermaTill (tiny little sharp rocks). At season end we will mix a large amount of PermaTill into all of our raised beds.

Cheers,
DL

I think , your other (better ?) option is to pick the maters at color break and ripen them inside.

On the suspect front, I can name THE RATS. That is what I have first hand experience with them. Sure other criters are capable of committing the crime as well. (Grin)