The groundhog is a large ground squirrel of North America, famous for Groundhog Day. It is a champion digger and a true hibernator, spending much of the winter asleep underground.
Interesting facts
- It is also called the woodchuck or whistle-pig.
- Each February 2, Groundhog Day celebrations in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, ‘predict’ the arrival of spring.
- Groundhogs dig large burrow systems with several entrances.
- They are good swimmers and climbers.
- It is one of the few animals that truly hibernates.
- Their whistling alarm calls warn others of danger.
Behaviour
Groundhogs are solitary and active by day, feeding heavily in summer and autumn to build fat for hibernation. They sit upright near their burrows to watch for danger.
Breeding and young
After about a month, females give birth to about two to six young in spring. The young leave the burrow after a few weeks.
Threats and conservation
The species is common. Groundhogs are hunted and trapped as pests and killed on roads.
Where to see it
- Fields and roadsides across eastern North America
- Parks and farmland in Pennsylvania and New York
- Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
- Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, on Groundhog Day
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
