woodchuck

The woodchuck (Marmota monax), also known as the groundhog, is a large rodent in the family Sciuridae native to North America. It occupies a variety of habitats across much of eastern and central North America, including grasslands, woodland edges, and agricultural areas.

Appearance and size: Woodchucks are stocky with a short-legged build, a blunt snout, and dense fur that is typically brownish with lighter underparts. Adults measure about 40–65 cm in total length, including the tail, which is about 12–20 cm long, and commonly weigh 2–4 kg.

Behavior and burrows: They are primarily diurnal and usually solitary outside the breeding season. Woodchucks construct extensive burrow systems that provide shelter, escape routes, and hibernation sites. Burrows can extend several meters and include nesting chambers and multiple entrances.

Hibernation and activity: In temperate regions they endure winter by entering a deep, prolonged hibernation with substantial reductions in metabolic rate and body temperature, emerging in early spring to forage and mate.

Diet: Woodchucks are omnivorous but mostly herbivorous, feeding on grasses, clover, alfalfa, herbs, as well as bark and vegetation. They may also consume insects and other small invertebrates. Food is often cached for winter use.

Reproduction: Breeding occurs after emergence from hibernation, with litters of 2–6 young after a gestation of about 30–31 days. Pups are altricial and nursed in the burrow for several weeks.

Conservation and human interaction: The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN and is common across its range. Woodchucks can be agricultural pests due to burrowing and feeding, and their burrows provide habitat for other wildlife. The common name is linked to a tongue-twister about chucking wood, though the animal does not actually do so.