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No, groundhogs do not bathe. However, rabbits are adaptable, and their diets adjust to the change of seasons and to their habitat. If you observe, you will find out they avoid the drinking water and move ahead. Groundhogs have thick claws, which they use to escape from these animals. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. It was actually imported from a German tradition that bases forecasting on the behavior of the European badgera totally unrelated small mammal of the carnivoreas opposed to rodentorder, but one that does also burrow and undergo a less intense form of hibernation. The groundhog tunnel is designed to prevent flooding. However, some wild groundhogs may also live up to 6 years. For some $30, you will get six packs with four 1.75-inch tubes in each. Groundhogs are skilled climbers and swimmers, which helps them to escape less-skilled predators. 3. Is it normal for groundhogs to climb trees? If you want to pet them, we might not suggest you to. What are some other names for groundhogs? How fast can groundhogs swim? - Greens like lettuce, alfalfa, clovers, dandelions, daisies, red mulberry and hackberry leaves. If the ground is dry and there is no food available, a groundhog may swim to a nearby body of water in search of aquatic plants to eat. 4. Everything from flowers to vegetables. How many divisions does a groundhog have? The Groundhogs Multi-Level Tunnels Help It Stay Dry, Both Nature and Humans Can Cause Groundhog Tunnel Flooding. They have fat, short legs, and big bellies so they look like they will have a hard time in the water. As early as February, they leave their burrows to scope out where females are hibernating. They are known for their burrowing abilities and for being pests in gardens and yards. Groundhogs are also variously referred to as woodchucks, whistle-pigs, or land-beavers. On average, a groundhog can hold its breath for 2 to 5 minutes but they are not naturally inclined to do so - unless they go swimming! All rights reserved. To keep the growth of the front teeth in check the groundhogs have to constantly chew or gnaw on leaves or grass. Average Size: 20" long with 6-7" tail, 6-12 lbs. About Groundhog research scientific only stay underwater for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Favorite foods include alfalfa, clover, peas, beans, lettuce, broccoli, plantain, and soybeans. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Woodchucks hibernate from late fall to early spring, but they do wake up and come out of their burrows periodically, said Tom French, retired assistant director of MassWildlifes Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program. Groundhogs like grassy open areas because they don't have big obstacles like tree roots and giant rocks. But if you shorten the distances some and add digging a hole, I think you're down to just groundhogs. The name is derived from the Algonquian name for the critters, wuchak . However as a species, they work to protect each other. Groundhogs have an impressive lung capacity that allows them to hold their breath long enough to discourage predators from pursuing them. In short, herbivore is aggressive. In Arkansas, for example, there's an estimated 67,000. Just like the other situations, this one has exceptions too. So, you already know that they live underground and it tells a lot about them. The name woodchuck has nothing to do with wood or chucking. (The pig is similar to how we refer to woodchucks rodent-cousin the guinea pig. Groundhogs are among the few species of true hibernators. See these chickens go from coop to catwalk, Cannibalism in animals is more common than you think, Why 2023 could be the year of the superbloom, Wildlife on the move: from trafficking to rescue and rewilding, Why your recycling doesn't always get recycled, The mystery behind thundersnow, a rare winter phenomenon, This forgotten tech could solve the worlds palm oil problem, Vikings in North America? Groundhogs Can Swim - Who Knew??? Reporter 1: What started out as a funny sight turned a little bit scary for a man from Hampton. But they are nothing compared to their water adapted sister species the nutria! But it will not works well, as groundhogs have many strategies to deal with heavy rain and flooding. In one case, it's been said they dug up bones in a cemetery. But can groundhogs swim? We know that having a water source such as a garden pond attracts groundhogs to backyards. Groundhogs are skilled climbers and swimmers, which helps them to escape less-skilled predators. Whether the heat is demanding a furry animal take a dip to cool off or they need to travel to find food, land animals will dive in and get wet just like us humans! What are 5 things groundhogs eat? Groundhogs are widely distributed across North America, ranging as far south as Alabama and as far north as Alaska. How everywhere chemicals help uterine fibroids grow, A look inside the world of the Neanderthals, Japan confronts a stark reality: a nation of old people, Why the new Alzheimers drug elicits optimism and caution, Feeling sick? The groundhog, or woodchuck, is one of 14 species of marmots. Groundhogs do not like noxious smells. How do groundhogs keep their teeth in check? During the approximately three-month hibernation period, soils get into their winter burst with only one entrance. Yes, groundhogs can dive underwater and can even stay underwater for some time. Getting a wildlife control professional to help could cost about $400 per groundhog! Groundhogs have sharp claws, which makes it possible for groundhogs to climb the trees. A groundhog is an expert swimmer and can swim long distances. It is a jungle out there! Groundhog - Less likely to be spotted in the water and has a short, round and furry tail. To keep the growth of the front teeth in check the groundhogs have to constantly chew or gnaw on leaves or grass. A scary owl will help prevent rodents from invading your backyard! But when necessary, groundhogs can carry their own in the water. It will also protect your backyard against the neighbors cat that thinks it is fine to use your vegetable garden as a toilet. Typically the victim hyperventilates before diving or swimming underwater, then dives or swims while holding her breath. Photo: Ingimage, Chris Whittier, V97, research assistant professor of conservation medicine at Cummings School, shares the dirt on these important enormous, whistling, burrowing squirrels. These burrows are extensive, with numerous chambers used separately as a latrine as well as for sleeping, hibernating, and nesting. Groundhogs do not love water but they can go in and swim if necessary. Best known for their supposed ability to predict spring weather and giving Bill Murray Dj vu, the groundhog is one of the most notorious garden pests in the Eastern US. These rodents also dig burrows, both as a means to protect themselves and to provide a cozy place that will help them get through the winter. to hold their breath when underwater.Groundhogs can dive and hold their breath instinctively, but they do not enjoy doing so! They weigh around 13 lbs. Its tail is mighty and can also be used as a defensive device - either by hitting an enemy or slamming it into the water to create an intense splash. Most of the groundhogs natural predators are bigger ground animals that avoid water. Make sure you reapply whenever rain washes away the spray. Some groundhogs even have more than one burrow. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. This leads to fainting underwater due to low oxygen levels in the bloodstream. Groundhogs are food-motivated. In fact, according to some wildlife experts, groundhogs can be excellent swimmers. By using our website, you agree to our. My favorite sprinkler option here is the Havahart 5277. In the winter they resort to woody plants, twigs and bark for nutrition. Each burrow opening is between 10 to 12 inches in diameter and is generally marked by a crescent-shaped mound of dirt. Unauthorized use is prohibited. They spend the fall months (prior to hibernation) feeding on protein-heavy, rich foods to build fat reserves. Raw people do not drink water. Mothers give birth to 2-4 kits, and these baby woodchucks remain with the mother for 2 months before becoming independent. Swimming tires squirrels out quickly. Some groundhogs even have more than one burrow. Groundhogs usually have two divisions, one for summer (meadow) and one for wooden winter places. Use dolphin kick to propel you across the water. Groundhog holes may be located near trees, walls or fences. Groundhogs are also known as woodchucks not only eat garden crops but also eat worms and insects sometimes. Fishers are elusive, forest-dwelling members of the weasel family with long, slim bodies, short legs, rounded ears and bushy tails. Researches have made clear that raccoons can swim at a mean . attracting groundhogs to your yard in the first place. (However, baby groundhogs sometimes do fall prey to raptors such as hawks, owls, and eagles.) They are solitary creatures except during their brief mating season in late winter, and are active both night and day throughout the year. of vegetation a day. They climb, they burrow, they swim, and they eatan adult consumes about a pound to a pound-and-a-half of vegetation daily. How was Rome founded? 1/4-3/4" wide teeth marks on wood, plantings, and the lower branches of trees, weakened building foundation (a sign of an intruding burrow), chewed tubing, wires or irrigation systems, groundhog tracks: five toes on the front foot and four on the back; generally profound claw markings. Either hand that they have to assist with life in the water is entirely waterproof. Groundhogs have four incisors, shaped like chisels, two upper and two lower of which the upper two continue to grow at the rate of 1/16 of an inch every week! Their lives and homes are worth more than a few vegetables and holes on the ground. Groundhogs are mostly herbivores, and their diet consists of roots, flowers, and other plant material. This includes clover, grasses, weeds, and flowers. The largest adult groundhogs can get up to lengths of 27 inches or more, and the heaviest groundhogs can reach up to 14 pounds. Their burrows can harm crops, weaken foundations of buildings, and damage farm equipment that may fall in. This helps prevent flooding. You will need to be careful when using these though because some of them can end up harming you and your pets if not applied properly. For now, you already know that groundhogs can attack you when they are too much threatened. Just because they can, does not mean they love it, however. How to tell if a groundhog is a groundhog? One other animal worthy of mention is Groundhogs. And wherever they are, they make their presence known. nothing Do. You can find groundhogs all over the central and eastern US. Groundhogs are the only members of the Sciuridae family with curved spines. While groundhogs typically avoid water, there are a few reasons why they may go near it or even enter it. Using live traps to catch the groundhog and drive it away to somewhere safe, but far away, is perhaps the best option if you want to get completely rid of groundhogs in your yard! A groundhog photographed in Lincoln, Nebraska. Groundhog burrows are known to have been responsible for uncovering a historic village in central Ohio - now a famous archeological site. The raw materials are rodents and are also known as Groundhog.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'animalstruth_com-banner-1','ezslot_10',632,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-animalstruth_com-banner-1-0'); Whistlepigs and Land Beavers. Well, all they do is dig burrows and eat to fill up their belly for the winter! These ground squirrels are mostly found in the eastern parts of the United States, mainly in an . 6 inches and weighs 4 to 9 pounds. Like other related rodents, groundhogs are not afraid of water and are perfectly capable of swimming and even, though more rarely, diving! As one of the largest members of the squirrel family, these rodents live a feast-or-famine lifestyle: They gorge themselves all summer to build up plentiful reserves of fat, then after the first frost retreat to their underground burrows to snooze until spring, . Worst comes to worst, you definitely don't want to try and handle them on your own since some groundhogs can be pretty aggressive animals. Do woodchucks actually chuck wood check out the answer to learn more about why they are named woodchucks! They stay hydrated by eating food plants wet from rain or dew. But sometimes they increase when they alarm two, and it instantly gallops a 16-kilo meter per hour (about 9.94 miles per hour ). Yes, groundhogs can swim. It is the . What Do Groundhogs Do If Their Tunnels Are Flooded? Groundhogs are generally not a threat to humans, but they can be a nuisance if they invade your yard or garden. From head to rump, groundhogs are 17.75 to 24 inches (45 to 61 centimeters) long, according to National Geographic. Groundhogs can swim in order to evade predators or survey their territory for potential food sources. With Images & Videos. Groundhogs can hold their breath for up to five minutes, which means they can stay submerged for a pretty long time. Groundhogs have an impressive lung capacity that allows them to hold their breath long enough to discourage predators from pursuing them. That's about as long as a bowling lane. Groundhogs mainly feed during the day and sleep at night. Real Estate; Home & Garden; But even if you don't have a lot of land, your home could still be a target. And this doesnt only happen for the ground. Groundhogs can swim at about 2 miles per hour. And even if they happen to encroach into our territories (or the other way around), woodchucks are unlikely to draw first blood. They have drainage systems and emergency exits that make drowning them very challenging! ins.style.display='block';ins.style.minWidth=container.attributes.ezaw.value+'px';ins.style.width='100%';ins.style.height=container.attributes.ezah.value+'px';container.appendChild(ins);(adsbygoogle=window.adsbygoogle||[]).push({});window.ezoSTPixelAdd(slotId,'stat_source_id',44);window.ezoSTPixelAdd(slotId,'adsensetype',1);var lo=new MutationObserver(window.ezaslEvent);lo.observe(document.getElementById(slotId+'-asloaded'),{attributes:true});They also use water to help keep their fur clean and free of dirt and debris. Apart from having a much smoother, less fluffy, tail, they look pretty much like a scruffy groundhog! While they don't live in the water, they are quite comfortable swimming across streams and ponds to get quickly to the other side. They can also cause serious structural damage through burrowing. This enables them to stay submerged for a while looking for food or escaping predators. Between spring and fall, they double their body weight. Groundhogs prefer hiding in burrows, but are accomplished swimmers and tree climbers when necessary. Those who go swimming less than one hour after eating will be taken by a cramp and drown. My favorite ultrasonic emitters. Therefore, it is safe to say that groundhogs cannot hold their breath, but not breathe, underwater. Top editors give you the stories you want delivered right to your inbox each weekday. Groundhogs are the bane of many a gardener. Groundhogs will also eat plants that people are trying to grow. Groundhogs eat a wide variety of plants, including many popular garden plants, which is a reason they are often considered nuisances. You can also buy natural repellants like the one shown here from Amazon. We believe that most animals can swim. They even have separate bathrooms. Manage Settings Groundhogs do not eat during hibernation. The best time to try to get rid of groundhogs is early in the spring, before mating season. Woodchucks occasionally climb trees when they require an escape from big predators. Groundhogs dislike the smell of herbs such as mint, sage, basil, rosemary, thyme, chives, and oregano . They can be very destructive. Mating season starts in early March, ideal timing as food becomes more abundantand theres just enough time to start packing on the body fat theyll need for the winter ahead.Females welcome a litter of perhaps a half-dozen newborns, which stay with their mother for several months. That said, it's still important to watch your back when exploring the outdoors or living in neighborhoods prowled by groundhogs. These rodents usually dig burrows in grassy areas and eat through gardens causing a lot of damage. As we mentioned before, groundhogs have lungs, and they need to breathe air. Stable. Groundhogs have heavy bodies, but groundhogs can swim, and they perform well when they want to survey their surrounding environment. They live underground by digging tunnels/holes called burrows. One of my favorite technologies to keep pests away from my backyard is these cool solar-powered ultrasonic sound emitters that you can buy right off Amazon! Take a big breath and lower your head into the water. Shallow Water Blackout happens when a swimmer or diver faints in shallow water, which is less than 16 feet (5 meters) deep. This photo was submitted to Your Shot, our photo community on Instagram. That's about one groundhog for every 45 humans. Why is it important to identify groundhog damage early? The . YES! But how can these cuties attack humans? Groundhogs are burrowers by nature. If they stay underwater for more than four minutes, they will start to suffocate and eventually die. Therefore many people would like to get rid of them and one solution is to flood their burrows. Other names for groundhogs include woodchucks, whistle-pigs and land-beavers. If they fall into a body of water that is too deep, they might drown if there is no easy way to get back on land but they do have an instinct (like human babies do!) Groundhog burrows are so complex that each has its own "bathroom" chamber. One or two groundhogs are capable of eating into your garden almost overnight. The lifespan of a raccoon in the wild is one to three years-compared with the potential to live 20 years in captivity-as most fall victim to predation, disease or moving cars at a relatively young age. Once a groundhog enters gestation, it will be difficult to repel her. They build extensive burrows anywhere from eight to 66 feet long with multiple entrances and rooms, including bathrooms. And even though they may be eating your vegetable garden in the summer, remember that groundhogs are important native wildlife wherever they exist, said Whittier, who is also director of the schools masters program in conservation medicine. Swimming fast means training fast, and fins help you do that. How Do Deer Survive Harsh Winter Weather? if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'animalstruth_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_0',623,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-animalstruth_com-medrectangle-3-0');If they can swim, maybe they can kayak. Nutria - Long, slightly furry tail and large, orange teeth. And just about the only way to keep them out is an electric fence, which can cost between $100 and $350 depending on the size of your yard. Spray this mixture on any exposed parts of the plant until completely covered. Generally, Groundhog doesnt drink water as much. Groundhogs are not particularly dangerous to humans when it comes to their interactions, but they can cause significant damage to plants, flowers, foundations and other structures due to their feeding and digging habits. Groundhogs will not go into the water unless absolutely necessary, but their cousins, the gophers, are sometimes seen swimming around in streams and ponds. That discovery made sense because when I first approached my observation spot I saw a groundhog first look round and then scurry down the hill near the riverbank. The short answer is YES, you should. They are hydrated by eating plants moistened by rain or dew. Animal-friendly laws are gaining traction across the U.S. COVID-19 is more widespread in animals than we thought. A groundhog was caught on video showing off its surprisingly swift swimming skills in Tennessee last week. Groundhog burrows are known to have been responsible for uncovering a historic village in central Ohio - now a famous archeological site. As far as groundhogs are concerned, I can't say whether or not they like to swim but something had to motivate the one that I saw halfway up a small willow tree in the Wetlands last week. Pour ammonia down their tunnel. If sunny enough for a shadow, the groundhog will return to the comfort of its burrow, and winter will continue for an additional 6 weeks. These burrows are not only potentially helpful to soils for aeration and nutrient recycling, but they are often used by other burrowing animals such as foxes, opossums, raccoons, and skunks. Groundhogs can swim and do in fact swim pretty well. Place two feet of it underground, with the horizontal part facing out. Size. February 2nd is the day each year in which we look towards a giant rodent to find out how much more winter well have to endure. Groundhogs are not high-maintenance when it comes to keeping clean. Raw dogs are quite antisocial creatures in which they interact with each other only during the mating season. Motion-activated lights, sounds, and sprinklers may help prevent groundhogs from entering your yard. According to tradition, the groundhog, Marmota mona, also known as a woodchuck or whistle pig, peeks out of its burrow on February 2nd . Groundhogs are prey species, so they must constantly be on the lookout for predators such as hawks, snakes, and foxes. Bait the groundhog into a trap, catch it, and then release it in a wooded area five miles away from your home. When you are a fairly small animal, being smart is the key to survival. However, most chicken fencing types will do. They can also relieve stress on shoulder jointssomething most. Here they eat grasses and plants as well as fruits and tree bark. They do not stay in bodies of water if they can help it. I like this solution because it is humane, simple, effective, and does not require much time to set up and there are many models to choose from. 1. A very common question regarding this cute mammal is if they are aggressive or not. What do groundhogs hate the most? This is the property not associated with the other rodents of the same family. They also survive well in winter and can continue to function normally in the water, even when lakes and ponds are frozen. By continuing to use our website you are agreeing to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. However, if the predator is blocking the entrance to the burrow, the groundhog may try to escape into the nearest water source and attempt to swim away. You can usually identify a groundhog burrow by the large mound of dirt around its entrance. Copyright 1996-2015 National Geographic SocietyCopyright 2015-2023 National Geographic Partners, LLC. Groundhog families disperse in the fall, and the young reach sexual maturity by two years. Read more about me and the blog on the About page. Groundhog hibernation gave rise to the popular U.S. custom of Groundhog Day, held on the second of February every year. Yes, groundhogs are hibernators. They are known for their burrowing abilities and for being pests in gardens and yards. Heres how different cold and flu drugs work, Searching for traces of the ancient Chola dynasty, This desert oasis is a time capsule of Egypts grand past, This mysterious son of a witch founded Glasgow, Singapores art and culture scene is a love letter to its city, An adventure across Abu Dhabis diverse landscapes, Photograph by Joel Sartore, National Geographic Photo Ark, Photograph by Dave Carnahan, National Geographic Your Shot, Wildlife on the move: from trafficking to rescue and rewilding, Video Story, An adventure across Abu Dhabis diverse landscapes, Video Story, Copyright 1996-2015 National Geographic Society, Copyright 2015-2023 National Geographic Partners, LLC. Groundhogs usually have two divisions, one for summer (meadow) and one for wooden winter places. Their tails are about 6-7 inches long, and they have short, but strong legs. Welcome to my blog!My name is Andy, and I work as a scientist in biology. The average weight of a groundhog will range from 6-12 pounds. To create the main entrance, a groundhog will burrow down at an angle approximately five feet, then back up two feet. Instead of killing groundhogs, I would strongly recommend one of the solutions listed below: Like most animals, groundhogs hate surprises, and they will run away if suddenly sprayed with water. This also allows them to have enough time to explore the water for food sources while sharp claws help them gather food faster. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Groundhogs enter into deep hibernation in the winter, at which time they are underground and inactive. Groundhog typically moves at 3-kilo meters per hour ( around 1.86 miles per hour ). The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. The first heavy frost marks bedtime, and the groundhog curls up into a ball in its bedchamber and slows its breathing and heart rate. They can also relieve stress on shoulder jointssomething most. On average, groundhogs measure 1 to 2.5 feet long and weigh 7 to 13 pounds, although they can potentially grow to be 24 inches (3 feet) long and weigh as much as 30 pounds when in an area with few predators. This is helpful if they need to escape a predator, find food or survive flooding. They can swim and in fact swim pretty well. Burrows may have connecting tunnels that are about 6 inches in diameter. This kick is considered the most powerful for swimming underwater. Other names for groundhogs include woodchucks, whistle-pigs and land-beavers. For example, from spring to fall, rabbits dine on grass, vegetables, fruits and flowers. Groundhogs live in underground burrows, but often build a separate winter burrow for hibernation. Tradition dictates that if a groundhog sees its shadow that day, there will be six more weeks of winter, though such a prediction seems a sure bet over much of the groundhog's North American range. And, it doesn't seem likely that it got there by accident. 3 They also know how to prevent heat loss they . When the groundhogs tunnel is flooded, they simply go to an upper chamber of the tunnel that is dry. 2022 Woodstream Corporation, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Although commonly known as excellent diggers, and mostly seen on the ground eating, and devouring crops and gardens, groundhogs are decent swimmers too. They might not be friendly but they are not aggressive too. The answer is yes, and we have them here in Iowa. Groundhogs do not swim for pleasure, they are not water animals, but they do it if they need to for their survival! It is a common misconception that groundhogs can breathe underwater. How long can a groundhog stay underwater? The Havahart 5277 is a motion-activated sprinkler that is activated by the movement of animals up to 25 feet away and sprays them with a harmless water jet, frightening them off and keeping them at bay. Groundhogs are generally not a threat to humans, but they can be a nuisance if they invade your yard or garden. These 6 Viking myths are compelling, but are they true? These large rodents may look adorable and have a generally laid-back demeanor, but theyll devour your entire garden before you know it. Well, in this case, no water they will not jump into to get food. If they stay underwater for more than four minutes, they will start to suffocate and eventually die. Groundhogs are doing it right. Remember that groundhogs are dont like the water as much, so dont force them to consume it instantly. Please be respectful of copyright. (However, baby groundhogs sometimes do fall prey to raptors such as hawks, owls, and eagles.). Rather, groundhogs will swim in order to reach a source of food or to escape a predator. Groundhogs do what they have to do to live. Groundhogs, or woodchucks, are large rodents known for their burrowing habits and destructive behavior. Raccoons can swim with a mean rate of motion of about five km/h three mph and can keep in place in the water for several hours. Heres what the science says. They can decimate a plot while voraciously feeding during the summer and fall seasons. For a large, relatively fat rodent, they do pretty well. They require consistent teeth cleaning and sharpening and they are good to go! They say Man is the only animal that can swim a mile, walk 20 miles, and then climb a tree. You can use old CDs you no longer need or aluminum trays from takeaway containers, just make sure they reflect light well. When Are Hedgehogs Most Active? A raccoon's main predators include bobcats, foxes, coyotes and owls. Even worse, groundhogs have been known to carry rabies, which can make them even more aggressive and dangerous. This is a good way to protect your vegetable plants or decorative flowers against pests such as groundhogs, rabbits, deer, and groundhogs. Can fasting help you live longer? WWII soldiers accidentally discovered this ancient royal tomb, Why some people celebrate Christmas in January. Though they are usually seen on the ground, groundhogs can climb trees and are also capable swimmers. The raw ones prefer to hide in holes but are experienced swimmers and climbers when needed.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'animalstruth_com-leader-3','ezslot_8',638,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-animalstruth_com-leader-3-0'); Young Groundhog, beyond their large size, has potential for several successful anti-predator behaviors, usually retreating to the safety point of their burrow, which most of the predators will not attempt. Hibernators. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. Or chucking. Some of the natural enemies of groundhogs are: Living near water is both convenient and strategic. For example, in 2018, a groundhog chased a woman in the parking lot of her office building. Then they go back to sleep for another month or so until its time to mate. That is, groundhogs don't swim for fun. Groundhogs bring their young with them when they go to the upper grounds for safety. Groundhog Quiz . Theyre neither fond of bathing, nor of cooling down in a pond on a hot summers day. Groundhog burrows are so complex that each has its own "bathroom" chamber. But before they can do that, they have to dig, and dig, and dig, and dig, and dig, and dig. When they come up for air, they will often make a sneeze sound to help remove any water from their nostrils. Groundhog mating season is in the early spring and, after only a month-long pregnancy, mother groundhogs typically give birth to a litter of two to six blind, hairless babies. Five Things You Didnt Know about Groundhogs, Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, masters program in conservation medicine. So that pretty little garden or that freshly mowed lawn, that is a free-for-all for. So that pretty little garden or that freshly mowed lawn, that is a free-for-all for groundhogs. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. The name whistle-pig comes from the fact that, when alarmed, a groundhog will emit a high-pitched whistle as a warning to the rest of his or her colony. Tradition dictates that if a groundhog sees its shadow that day, there will be six more weeks of winter, though such a prediction seems a sure bet over much of the groundhogs North American range. The groundhog is a large ground-dwelling rodent commonly found throughout eastern North America and much of Canada. They may start to spend more. They dont drink water because they are reported to obtain needed liquids from the food and plants juices and aided by their sprinkling with rain. Groundhogs prefer to stay in dry places. If it is fluffy, its a groundhog, if its round and smooth, its a nutria, if it is flat and smooth, its a beaver! They are skilled climbers and swimmers that help them escape from less-skilled predators, Their net legs make it easy to swim, and the paddles allow you to sail the water. The groundhog defends itself from predators by using its two large incisors and claws. as well as other partner offers and accept our. Alfalfa, clover, peas, beans, lettuce, broccoli, plantain, and soybeans are among their favorite plants. They are at home both on land and in water. Groundhog burrowing can pose a serious threat to agricultural and residential developments, which is why its important to identify groundhog damage early. Do Groundhogs Swim? (However, baby groundhogs sometimes do fall prey to raptors such as hawks, owls, and eagles.) Don't let their adorable faces fool you-raccoons are formidable . Fishers are larger and darker than martens and have thick fur. Follow us on Instagram at @natgeoyourshot or visit us at natgeo.com/yourshot for the latest submissions and news about the community. Shallow Water Blackout. As an animal that hibernates, groundhogs are known to store fat as winter approaches. While many Americans would recognize famed Punxsutawney Phil as a groundhog, they may not know much else about the species. They usually dive for 4.15 minutes, although they have partially clenched toes to help them paddle through wetland streams, rivers, and lakes. Groundhogs are small, ground-dwelling rodents that are found in North and Central America. They dont like water that much, so they only get in if theyre afraid or hungry enough. The answer is yes! Some of the links on this site are affiliate links. Like other related rodents, groundhogs are not afraid of water and are perfectly capable of swimming and even, though more rarely, diving! Living in underground tunnels, one would expect groundhogs to be covered in dust, debris, and dirt, but that is not the case. We know groundhogs look cute but they are not good pets. Some of the commercial groundhog repellents available include Shake-Away, BonideRepels All, Critter Ridder, and Tom Cate Repellent. Groundhogs weigh between 4-14 pounds, and are stocky, giving the appearance of crouching close to the ground as it moves around. News stories have shown "stranded" groundhogs during floods were, in fact, simply resting on fences or in trees before swimming off to wherever they can find rest. Like other related rodents, groundhogs are not afraid of water and are perfectly capable of swimming and even, though more rarely, diving! These rodents frequent the areas where woodlands meet open spaces, like fields, roads, or. Most of the time, their burrows will end up destroyed by the water. Reproduction: Mating season begins in early spring, once groundhogs emerge from hibernation. These rodents frequent the areas where woodlands meet open spaces, like fields, roads, or streams. Because of their relatively large adult size and burrowingnot to mention climbing and swimming abilitiesgroundhogs don't have many predators aside from coyotes, foxes, domestic dogs, and, of course, humans. Heavy rains can cause flooding to the groundhogs homes. They are primarily found in North America and Canada. But thats a wrong explanation. If you think you're watching a Groundhog, your best bet might be to observe what it does when it reaches its destination. Click to read more at Amazon. Yes, you can drown a groundhog if it stays in the water for too long. Here's what we really know. Bodies of water like these are great food sources and provide a quick escape when the groundhogs are pursued by predators. This means that loud or consistent noises will scare them away or at least shorten their visits significantly! What do groundhogs eat? If a groundhog sees a predator approaching, it will quickly scurry into its burrow for safety. They live, breed, and hibernate underground. However, they are not very afraid of rain or puddles. When a groundhog starts building its burrow, it digs inward for several feet, and then it inclines the tunnel upward for a few more feet. 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