Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks and whistle-pigs, are large rodents that belong to the squirrel family. They are native to North America and can be found in many parts of the United States. Here are some interesting facts about groundhogs:
- Groundhogs have an excellent sense of smell which helps them find food and detect danger.
- Groundhogs hibernate during the winter months and can sleep for up to six months at a time!
- Groundhogs have a diet consisting mainly of grass, herbs, and plants like dandelions, daisies, and goldenrods.
- Groundhog burrows can consist of nearly 50 feet of tunnels, buried five feet underground!
- Groundhogs use their sharp claws to dig their burrows which help aerate the soil.
- When scared or threatened, groundhogs will whistle loudly as a warning signal to other groundhogs in the area.
- The average lifespan of a groundhog is three to six years in the wild but they can live up to 10 years in captivity!
Groundhogs may look cute but they can cause serious damage to your garden if left unchecked! If you spot one near your home it’s best to take steps to humanely remove them from your property before they cause any further damage.
