Groundhog
ExploreMammal
Groundhog
Marmota monax
Groundhogs are friendly, furry creatures that love to dig. They make cozy burrows underground where they sleep and stay safe.
Habitat: Fields, forests, and gardens
Appearance
The Groundhog is a sturdy, medium-sized rodent with shaggy, brownish-grey fur often tipped with red or yellow. It has short legs, a bushy tail, and small, rounded ears. Its robust body and short snout distinguish it from smaller squirrels.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassMammaliaOrderRodentiaFamilySciuridaeGenusMarmota
Category
MammalRarity
Common
Danger
1/5
Snaps
62
Interesting facts
A groundhog's teeth never stop growing, so they chew constantly to keep them short!
During hibernation, a groundhog's body temperature can drop almost to freezing!
Their underground burrows can have many rooms and often an escape tunnel!
These furry animals can swim surprisingly well, sometimes crossing streams!
Special abilities
Ability
Burrow Master
Groundhog can dig extensive underground tunnels because of strong claws that help them create safe homes and escape routes.
Ability
Deep Sleeper
Groundhog can hibernate for months by greatly slowing its heart rate and breathing, helping it survive cold winters.
Ability
Alarm Whistle
Groundhog has a loud, sharp whistle that helps them warn other groundhogs of nearby predators or danger.
Measurements & details
- Length
- 40-65 cm
- Weight
- 2-6 kg
- Lifespan
- 3-6 years
- Top Speed
- 16 km/h
- Litter Size
- 2-6
- Gestation
- 31-32 days
Diet & Feeding
Groundhogs are plant-eaters, munching on a variety of fresh greens, fruits, and flowers.
Primary Foods
- Grasses
- Clover
- Dandelions
- Fruits
- Vegetables
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
eaten by
Coyote
Canis latrans
Coyotes often hunt groundhogs in open areas.
eaten by
Red Fox
Vulpes vulpes
Red foxes prey on groundhogs, especially young ones.
eaten by
Red-tailed Hawk
Buteo jamaicensis
Large raptors sometimes catch groundhogs from above.
eats
White Clover
Trifolium repens
Groundhogs commonly graze on clover in fields.
Traits
Wildlife
Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!
Furry
Find adorable animals covered in a cozy coat of soft fur! Their fur helps them stay warm and protected in different environments.
Burrowing
Dig deep and discover animals that build amazing homes underground! They create tunnels and chambers to stay safe, find food, or escape the weather.
Herbivorous
Meet the peaceful munchers and grazers who find all their nourishment from plants, leaves, and fruits. They transform plant energy into life!
Forest
These lush habitats are filled with countless trees, offering homes to a huge variety of plants and animals! Immerse yourself in the green canopy.
Hibernating
Discover animals that take a long winter nap! They slow down their bodies and sleep deeply to save energy when food is scarce and it's cold outside.
Carnivorous
Discover fierce hunters and clever predators that get all their energy from eating other animals. They play a vital role in keeping nature's balance.
Diurnal
Wake up with creatures that are most active during the day! They love the sunshine for finding food, playing, and exploring.
Also known as
WhistlepigWoodchuck
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5
Groundhogs are usually shy and won't bother you. Just watch them from a distance and enjoy their fun activities!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Groundhog?
40-65 cm
How much does Groundhog weigh?
2-6 kg
How long does Groundhog live?
3-6 years
How fast can Groundhog move?
16 km/h
What does Groundhog eat?
Groundhogs are plant-eaters, munching on a variety of fresh greens, fruits, and flowers.
Where is Groundhog usually found?
Fields, forests, and gardens
How does Groundhog hunt?
Foraging
How many babies does Groundhog usually have?
2-6
Snap Map
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Recent Snaps
Where to spot
Park114 sightings18 species
New Jersey, US
Colonial Park
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Zoo27 sightings18 species
Arkansas, US
Little Rock Zoo
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Quebec, CA
Parc Jean-Drapeau
You might spot Groundhog, Ring-Billed Gull, and Eastern Gray Squirrel.
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Park124 sightings17 species
Virginia, US
Lake Fairfax Park
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Zoo24 sightings16 species
Oklahoma, US
Tulsa Zoo
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Park66 sightings15 species
New York, US
Black Creek Park
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