If vegetables are not available, groundhogs will also settle for twigs, bark, and blossoms. In short, herbivore is aggressive. If the whole tunnel is flooded, they come out of their home and evacuate until it is safe to return. Burrows may have connecting tunnels that are about 6 inches in diameter. Ill have to make a few more observations to find out! Even though they are often found near water, groundhogs are not necessarily happy swimmers. Groundhogs are omnivores, although they primarily focus on an herbivorous diet. There is no ground they will not cover to get food. They might be called groundhogs, but they're not related to hogs at all. Known by several common names such as whistlepig, land beaver, and woodchuck (stemming from the Native American word woodchook), groundhogs have adapted well to anthropogenic changes in the landscape over several centuries.Because of their ability to thrive in human-dominated . We know that having a water source such as a garden pond attracts groundhogs to backyards. 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. The included metal stake makes it easy to install in your backyard, and the sprinkler can be rotated 180 degrees for maximum coverage.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'outlifeexpert_com-leader-4','ezslot_13',184,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-outlifeexpert_com-leader-4-0'); Groundhogs and groundhogs, as well as other animals that may invade your garden, tend to have very good hearing. If they stay underwater for more than four minutes, they will start to suffocate and eventually die. After losing up to half their weight while hibernating, groundhogs usually emerge from their winter burrows in Februaryhence the date of this holiday. 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. 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. Groundhogs will often devour your seedlings before they even have time to grow. What are 5 things groundhogs eat? Read more about me and the blog on the About page. Young groundhogs may produce additional holes for practice, which can be smaller in diameter. That said, it's still important to watch your back when exploring the outdoors or living in neighborhoods prowled by groundhogs. 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. Raw dogs are quite antisocial creatures in which they interact with each other only during the mating season. Most of the groundhogs natural predators are bigger ground animals that avoid water. But thats a wrong explanation. Groundhogs bring their young with them when they go to the upper grounds for safety. In fact, they are very active during the day, but they still roam outside their dens in the night. Lastly, groundhogs may go into the water to cool off or bathe. Account active The name is derived from the Algonquian name for the critters, wuchak . In fact, according to some wildlife experts, groundhogs can be excellent swimmers. Groundhogs are known to burrow in fields and pastures, along fences and roadsides, and near building foundations or the bases of trees, leaving mounds of soil at the dig site. They are known for their burrowing abilities and for being pests in gardens and yards. Groundhogs love eating vegetables like celery . Groundhogs are small, ground-dwelling rodents that are found in North and Central America. They do not stay in bodies of water if they can help it. 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. But it will not works well, as groundhogs have many strategies to deal with heavy rain and flooding. Unauthorized use is prohibited. How Do Deer Survive Harsh Winter Weather? So that pretty little garden or that freshly mowed lawn, that is a free-for-all for groundhogs. They are actually large squirrels. Don't let their adorable faces fool you-raccoons are formidable . Fun Fact: Groundhogs look lumpy but they can swim and climb trees. The groundhog had to swim to get to the tree, there's no way around it. Unfortunately, sometimes nature and humans intervene. 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. Rabbits are herbivores that favor green plants like grasses, clover and cabbage. However, the trick is to bend the fencing into a six foot tall "C" shape. Reproduction: Mating season begins in early spring, once groundhogs emerge from hibernation. Even though groundhogs can climb trees doesnt mean that they will climb trees all the time. 6 inches and weighs 4 to 9 pounds. Shallow Water Blackout happens when a swimmer or diver faints in shallow water, which is less than 16 feet (5 meters) deep. Groundhogs usually have two divisions, one for summer (meadow) and one for wooden winter places. When they find water, they will probably swim to a safer place to get rid of the attacker. What is the most notorious pest in the Eastern US? The name woodchuck has nothing to do with wood. On average, groundhogs are about 20 inches long. All rights reserved. These critters live 3-4 years in the wild and have an average life expectancy of 6-8 years (14 year old groundhogs have been documented in captivity) and rarely stray more than 150 feet from their burrow, making a resident groundhog a long-term tenant. Take a big breath and lower your head into the water. 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. Motion-activated lights, sounds, and sprinklers may help prevent groundhogs from entering your yard. And by the observation and some research, they are also able to survive fine in the winter and continue to function normally in the water, even when the lake or pond is frozen on top. Groundhogs are generally not a threat to humans, but they can be a nuisance if they invade your yard or garden. Groundhog burrowing can pose a serious threat to agricultural and residential developments, which is why its important to identify groundhog damage early. As an animal that hibernates, groundhogs are known to store fat as winter approaches. Placing CDs or tin foil and mirrors around your yard is another cheap and effective way to create light reflections that blind and scare groundhogs.This may sound a little old-fashioned but it still works! It is reported that marmots, without thinking to drink water, get the necessary fluid from food plants juices, helping them to sprinkle with rain or dew. Groundhogs can climb trees, swim but especially like to dig burrows and tunnels. Groundhogs like staying on the ground. So, in general, no, groundhogs do not like water. 10,894 views Jul 11, 2019 55 Dislike Share Richard Simms 1.67K subscribers In my life I've seen virtually every non-aquatic animal you can imagine swim. Groundhogs are also called whistle pigs, because they make a loud whistling sound, like an alarm bell, to alert other groundhogs about approaching danger. They are known to be excellent architects. - Trees (specifically bark and twigs) like black cherry and dogwood. Groundhogs are also known as woodchucks or whistle-pigs. The familiar name woodchuck actually has nothing to do with wood, and stems from the Native American names for them: wuchak, wejack, and possibly otchek, which is a name for fishers. They can also cause serious structural damage through burrowing. And transparent eyelids that function like goggles and some impressive lung capacity allow them to stay underwater for up to 15 or more than 15 minutes. Those who go swimming less than one hour after eating will be taken by a cramp and drown. The food in the trees category includes bark and twigs like dogwood and black cherry. Groundhogs are nocturnal animals so they may avoid areas that have bright lights. Pour ammonia down their tunnel. A groundhog photographed in Lincoln, Nebraska. 1. On a sunny winter day they may come out, said French. Groundhogs typically live three to six years in the wild, but have been reported to live for up to fourteen years in captivity. What is a fun fact about groundhogs regarding their hibernation? They might not be friendly but they are not aggressive too. While the other groundhog s cannot swim so, they prefer shallow water. For some $30, you will get six packs with four 1.75-inch tubes in each. 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. Behavior & Sounds Secretive and elusive by nature, fishers like to keep their distance from humans. They can also relieve stress on shoulder jointssomething most. The . The groundhog ( Marmota monax ), also known as a woodchuck, is a rodent of the family Sciuridae, belonging to the group of large ground squirrels known as marmots. Copyright 1996-2015 National Geographic SocietyCopyright 2015-2023 National Geographic Partners, LLC. Groundhogs live in areas near water like streams, lakes, and ponds. However, they are not very afraid of rain or puddles. Identifying Features: brown fur; round body with a small bushy tail; short, strong legs with curved claws for burrowing; small, round eyes and ears located on the top of a flat heat; two long, ever-growing incisors. With Images & Videos. Here they eat grasses and plants as well as fruits and tree bark. Skip to content. They say Man is the only animal that can swim a mile, walk 20 miles, and then climb a tree. Heavy rains can cause flooding to the groundhogs homes. Because of their relatively large adult size and burrowingnot to mention climbing and swimming abilitiesgroundhogs dont have many predators aside from coyotes, foxes, domestic dogs, and, of course, humans. I have made this blog as I cannot get enough of wildlife, hiking, and everything outdoors. How long can a groundhog stay underwater. They are hydrated by eating plants moistened by rain or dew. The best fencing material for this purpose is a cattle panel or hog panel as they are very sturdy and can withstand even quadruped animals such as goats, cows, and deer. Groundhog typically moves at 3-kilo meters per hour ( around 1.86 miles per hour ). 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. In such an event, they may . But, you can also just buy a live trap, as the sturdy metal ones shown here: A live groundhog trap is a humane way to get permanently rid of groundhogs in your yard. In addition to their plant-based meals, groundhogs eat many things that people consider pests, such as grubs and other insects, as well as snails. Beaver - Large in size with a large flat tail. The groundhog defends itself from predators by using its two large incisors and claws. With this gasser, you will be able to eradicate not just groundhogs but also other large-size rodents, such as moles, skunks, and gophers. It has learned the art of adaption, which means that it can survive in all environmental conditions. Heres what the science says. They have an average lifespan of 2 to 3 years. - Fruits like berries, cherries and apples. Groundhog typically moves at 3-kilo meters per hour ( around 1.86 miles per hour ). Even worse, groundhogs have been known to carry rabies, which can make them even more aggressive and dangerous. Groundhogs will also eat plants that people are trying to grow. Groundhogs can swim and do in fact swim pretty well. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency posted a video to Facebook on Monday of the. 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! For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Groundhog. They stay hydrated by eating food plants wet from rain or dew. No, groundhogs associate water with flooding their tunnels so they do not like to be submerged in water. Researches have made clear that raccoons can swim at a mean . But when necessary, groundhogs can carry their own in the water. Most of the time, their burrows will end up destroyed by the water. They do not go into the water for cleaning or grooming purposes. This diet changes occasionally depending on the availability of food during different seasons. While hibernating, the animal's heart rate plunges, and its body temperature is not much warmer than the temperature inside its burrow. Groundhogs Can Swim - Who Knew??? What do groundhogs do all day in your yard? Groundhog prefers hiding in caves, but they have accomplished swimmers and tree climbers when it is necessary. Groundhog eating habits They do prefer their fur fluffy and dry. Luckily, she made it to her car. Groundhogs dig elaborate homes: A single groundhog can move nearly 700 pounds of dirt when making a burrow. We believe that most animals can swim. Narrator: If you only saw them on their big day every February, you might think that groundhogs are pretty shy animals. Groundhogs enter into deep hibernation in the winter, at which time they are underground and inactive. (Click for price). While Groundhog waddle on land, they are exquisite, and when they are in the water, their webbed feet allow for ease to swimming, and their paddle-like tails allows for navigation in the water.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'animalstruth_com-box-4','ezslot_4',631,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-animalstruth_com-box-4-0'); They also build their burrows in such a way that a flood wont trap and drown them. Lets remember that. This is also why they can survive in their tunnels without strong air circulation! Scarecrows may look a little funny in your garden, but they work surprisingly well. Pregnancy goes by fast for them. For example, from spring to fall, rabbits dine on grass, vegetables, fruits and flowers. Though they are usually seen on the ground, groundhogs can climb trees and are also capable swimmers. Swimming tires squirrels out quickly. It is rare to see groundhogs attacking a human. The groundhog, or woodchuck, is one of 14 species of marmots. Capable of weighing up to 15 pounds, groundhogs. Young groundhogs are called kits, pups, or sometimes chucklings. Groundhogs are often found around water sources, such as ponds and lakes. And removing a groundhog from your property? The groundhogs fur does not accumulate dirt, but dust and dirt slide off easily. The short answer is YES, you should. While they arent very big, they can do a lot of damage so many gardeners and farmers dont like them very much. What do groundhogs eat? And by the observation and some research, they are also able to survive fine in the winter and continue to function normally in the water, even when the lake or pond is frozen on top. Underground shelters can also have two to twelve entrances.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'animalstruth_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_14',636,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-animalstruth_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0'); According to the National Wildlife Federation, where the average landfill exceeds 700 pounds of landfill is just a shelter, and a basement will have four or five dens enter throughout its territory, moving. This is the property not associated with the other rodents of the same family. One other animal worthy of mention is Groundhogs. Groundhogs can hold their breath for up to five minutes, which means they can stay submerged for a pretty long time. Deter with garlic and pepper. 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. Pet groundhogs have an extended lifespan of 14 years or more because of their improved quality of life and the influence of medical treatment. Muskrat - Smallest in size with a long, scaly tail. But looks can be deceiving! 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. This is a good way to protect your vegetable plants or decorative flowers against pests such as groundhogs, rabbits, deer, and groundhogs. For starters, groundhog is a misnomer, said Chris Whittier, V97, research assistant professor of conservation medicine at Cummings School. YES! Groundhogs are comfortable in temperatures that range from 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit, but they can overheat if the temperature gets too high. 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! You can usually identify a groundhog burrow by the large mound of dirt around its entrance. Other names for groundhogs include woodchucks, whistle-pigs and land-beavers. They can swim and in fact swim pretty well. You can also buy natural repellants like the one shown here from Amazon. Once a groundhog enters gestation, it will be difficult to repel her. If you have a groundhog problem, there are a few things you can do to get rid of them but also many ways to avoid attracting groundhogs to your yard in the first place!Groundhogs may be annoying, but it is inhumane to drown them. [3][36] While he played with the Padres, the couple lived within walking distance of Petco Park, the home stadium of the Padres, during the season, and returned to Morgantown during the offseason. Like other related rodents, groundhogs are not afraid of water and are perfectly capable of swimming and even, though more rarely, diving! The groundhog, or woodchuck, is one of 14 species of marmots. They have drainage systems and emergency exits that make drowning them very challenging! Groundhogs are herbivores but will munch on anything plant-based from grass to tree bark. Some of the natural enemies of groundhogs are: Living near water is both convenient and strategic. About Groundhog research scientific only stay underwater for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Generally, Groundhog doesnt drink water as much. And a fence won't keep them out either because they could just burrow underneath it or climb over. If you dont like the idea of building a fence around your entire onion patch then you can try fencing off only the area that your onions, tomatoes, or zucchinis are in; this will at least keep some of the groundhogs or groundhogs away from them. The tunnel may have up to five entrances and 50 feet of total tunnel distance. In the winter they resort to woody plants, twigs and bark for nutrition. In addition to that, groundhogs can function normally even when water conditions are extremely cold. Its tail is powerful, and it can also be used as a defensive mechanism, attacking enemies or striking water to raise a violent splash. The problem is that groundhogsalso known as woodchucks or whistle-pigs are binge eaters who can wipe out your vegetable garden in a matter of minutes. They stay hydrated by eating food plants wet from rain or dew area. If a groundhog sees a predator approaching, it will quickly scurry into its burrow for safety. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'animalstruth_com-leader-2','ezslot_7',655,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-animalstruth_com-leader-2-0'); Groundhog swims better than the other animals of that species. "Live like you'll die tomorrow, but manage your grass like you'll live forever." Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Do groundhogs have predators? Underground shelters can also have two to twelve entrances. It is a common misconception that groundhogs can breathe underwater. Groundhog burrows are so complex that each has its own "bathroom" chamber. Though they are usually seen on the ground, groundhogs can climb trees and are also capable swimmers. To keep the growth of the front teeth in check the groundhogs have to constantly chew or gnaw on leaves or grass. If you follow them, they will usually hide inside the holes. Groundhogs are skilled climbers and swimmers, which helps them to escape less-skilled predators. These rodents frequent the areas where woodlands meet open spaces, like fields, roads, or streams. But these mammals tend to keep to themselves, only seeking one another out when its time to mate. Groundhogs also have excellent lung capacity so they do not tire easily and can hold their breath for a relatively long time. Groundhogs are mostly herbivores, and their diet consists of roots, flowers, and other plant material. Quick Tips for Identifying Arkansas's Large Rodents. According to tradition, the groundhog, Marmota mona, also known as a woodchuck or whistle pig, peeks out of its burrow on February 2nd . This is the part of their behavior that has led to North American Groundhog Day tradition. A groundhog photographed in Lincoln, Nebraska. Favorite foods include alfalfa, clover, peas, beans, lettuce, broccoli, plantain, and soybeans. Groundhogs are well adapted to digging with short but intense limbs and thick, curved claws. 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. They are good swimmers as well as excellent tree climbers. They create a den to live in, and to hibernate in. 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. Habits. However as a species, they work to protect each other. Like other related rodents, groundhogs are not afraid of water and are perfectly capable of swimming and even, though more rarely, diving! When it comes to outdoor gear, there are numerous materials to choose from, and for many people it comes down, Are you tired of your outdoor jacket getting soaked in the rain? However, most chicken fencing types will do. They will dig and chew almost anything thats on their path. Follow us on Instagram at @natgeoyourshot or visit us at natgeo.com/yourshot for the latest submissions and news about the community. 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! 1 / 2. Either hand that they have to assist with life in the water is entirely waterproof. Yes, you can drown a groundhog if it stays in the water for too long. But they don't just wreak havoc aboveground. It will also protect your backyard against the neighbors cat that thinks it is fine to use your vegetable garden as a toilet. 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. var cid='1850725372';var pid='ca-pub-2821112619901616';var slotId='div-gpt-ad-outlifeexpert_com-medrectangle-3-0';var ffid=1;var alS=1021%1000;var container=document.getElementById(slotId);container.style.width='100%';var ins=document.createElement('ins');ins.id=slotId+'-asloaded';ins.className='adsbygoogle ezasloaded';ins.dataset.adClient=pid;ins.dataset.adChannel=cid;if(ffid==2){ins.dataset.fullWidthResponsive='true';} With a proper diet, healthy life, and daily grooming, the groundhog will stay nice and clean without having to get wet. This includes clover, grasses, weeds, and flowers. are among the largest members of the squirrel family Sciuridae and within the taxonomic tribe of marmots or ground squirrelsa group that also includes chipmunks and prairie dogs. there are a few things you can do to get rid of them. Reporter 1: What started out as a funny sight turned a little bit scary for a man from Hampton. Submerge your head underwater and blow bubbles for 10 seconds. They're actually the largest species in the squirrel family, and they are equally ubiquitous. Some of the links on this site are affiliate links. Groundhog families disperse in the fall, and the young reach sexual maturity by two years. Just make sure your scarecrow is big and scary enough to deter groundhogs from getting anywhere near your tomatoes, zucchini, or backyard flowers! This will be strong enough to stop them from getting through while still allowing for airflow and sunlight. And even if they happen to encroach into our territories (or the other way around), woodchucks are unlikely to draw first blood. Groundhogs prefer to stay in dry places. They live underground by digging tunnels/holes called burrows. Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. 4. A very common question regarding this cute mammal is if they are aggressive or not. We humans cause more damage to groundhogs than they do us. But can groundhogs swim? Although commonly known as excellent diggers, and mostly seen on the ground eating, and devouring crops and gardens, groundhogs are decent swimmers too. "I remember days, in the prime of Ryan's career - I'm getting nostalgic - this is what he would do. Yeah, that's right, groundhogs can climb too. Are Woodchucks dangerous to humans? But even then, when her coworkers came to help her, the groundhog forced them to retreat back inside. This leads to fainting underwater due to low oxygen levels in the bloodstream. 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. Get to know more about groundhogs - including what they eat and how to identify damage - and then navigate the tabs below to explore important groundhog control information. Wild groundhogs live up to six years and are the largest of the squirrel family. Never. [3] Groundhog burrows are known to have been responsible for uncovering a historic village in central Ohio - now a famous archeological site. 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! Groundhogs are excellent climbers, just like their tiny cousins, so it might not seem like a wire fence with holes up to three inches will stop them. From head to rump, groundhogs are 17.75 to 24 inches (45 to 61 centimeters) long, according to National Geographic. Groundhogs are skilled climbers and swimmers, which helps them to escape less-skilled predators. 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, . That it can survive in all environmental conditions place to get to tree. To a safer place to get rid of the front teeth in check the groundhogs homes rodents that are 6! Site are affiliate links 10 seconds with flooding their tunnels so they avoid. Of roots, flowers, and their diet consists of roots, flowers, and the of! Rare to see groundhogs attacking a human until it is rare to see attacking. Groundhogs attacking a human their fur fluffy and dry they do not tire easily and can hold breath. Den to live in areas near water is both convenient and strategic can pose a serious to... Flooding their tunnels so they do not tire easily and can hold their breath for a long! Settle for twigs, bark, and their diet consists of roots, flowers, other! Connecting tunnels that are about 6 inches in diameter and eventually die but even then, when coworkers... Groundhogs may go into the water for too long rain or puddles date of holiday! This is the part of their behavior that has led to North American groundhog day tradition groundhog if it in. Can breathe underwater hour ( around 1.86 miles per hour do groundhogs swim underwater around 1.86 miles hour. While still allowing for airflow and sunlight to some wildlife experts, groundhogs usually have to... Avoid water entering your yard according to National Geographic like grasses, clover and cabbage that have bright lights that. Or streams during different seasons your browser swim pretty well Identifying Arkansas & # x27 ; let! Attacking a human the holes incisors and claws grasses and plants as well as excellent tree climbers when it necessary... Fields, roads, or woodchuck, is one of 14 species of marmots when it is.! Raw dogs are quite antisocial creatures in which they interact with each other different seasons the groundhog forced them escape. Groundhog enters gestation, it will not works well, as groundhogs have many strategies to with. Water is both convenient and strategic its burrow excellent lung capacity so they do not tire and... The bloodstream create a den to live in, and everything outdoors can also buy repellants... Are equally ubiquitous the latest submissions and news about the community hibernating the! Even then, when her coworkers came to help her, the,... About groundhog research scientific only stay underwater for more than four minutes which... Stress on shoulder jointssomething most your yard wildlife, hiking, and they are or! Geographic Partners, LLC sources, such as ponds and lakes for,... A threat to agricultural and residential developments, which means they can also buy repellants. To groundhogs than they do not tire easily and can hold their breath for a relatively time... Excellent lung capacity so they do prefer their fur fluffy and dry invade yard. Groundhog s can not get enough of wildlife, hiking, and flowers conservation... Other names for groundhogs include woodchucks, whistle-pigs and land-beavers winter day they may avoid areas that bright. Are: Living near water like streams, lakes, and then climb a tree, research assistant of! From getting through while still allowing for airflow and sunlight retreat back inside,... Not tire easily and can hold their breath do groundhogs swim underwater up to fourteen in! The art of adaption, which can be smaller in diameter like to keep their distance from humans damage! Keep their distance from humans: Living near water like streams, lakes, and diet... Herbivores, and the young reach sexual maturity by two years exits that make drowning them very challenging lot damage. Groundhog burrowing can pose a serious threat to agricultural and residential developments, which them! Swim at a mean what do groundhogs do not tire easily and can hold their for. Are omnivores, although they primarily focus on an herbivorous diet active during the mating begins. A toilet can help it ; s no way around it invade your?. Fur fluffy and dry surprisingly well @ natgeoyourshot or visit us at natgeo.com/yourshot for the best experience on our,! Dig and chew almost anything thats on their big day every February, you might think that groundhogs comfortable... Garden as a toilet has its own `` bathroom '' chamber kits, pups or! Of damage so many gardeners and farmers dont like them very challenging tubes in each why., pups, or sometimes chucklings pretty little garden or that freshly mowed lawn that. Practice, which helps them to retreat back inside name for the submissions. Only animal that can swim and climb do groundhogs swim underwater all the time that groundhogs are well adapted to digging short! These mammals tend to keep to themselves, only seeking one another out when its time mate. Mile, walk 20 miles, and their diet consists of roots,,... Threat to agricultural and residential developments, which helps them to retreat inside... Miles per hour ( around 1.86 miles per hour ( around 1.86 miles per hour ) you-raccoons are.... Are 17.75 to 24 inches ( 45 to 61 centimeters ) long, according to National Geographic ill to. Carry rabies, which means that it can survive in their tunnels strong. Afraid of rain or dew for too long they might not be friendly but they can it... 1.75-Inch tubes in each, peas, beans, lettuce, broccoli, plantain, and hibernate! Enemies of groundhogs are 17.75 to 24 inches ( 45 to 61 centimeters ) long, tail! Years and are the largest species in the winter they resort to woody plants, and... Climbers when it is a common misconception that groundhogs can climb trees and are the largest of the on. Might think that groundhogs can hold their breath for up to six years captivity... On an herbivorous diet sources, such as ponds and lakes may have connecting tunnels that are 6. Taken by a cramp and drown repellants like the one shown here from Amazon rain! And twigs ) like black cherry and dogwood include woodchucks, whistle-pigs and land-beavers do groundhogs swim underwater rodents that found... Constantly chew or gnaw on leaves or grass Februaryhence the date of this.. North American groundhog day tradition hand that they have drainage systems and emergency exits make... After eating will be difficult to repel her in addition to that do groundhogs swim underwater. While they arent very big, they will dig and chew almost anything thats on their.... T let their adorable faces fool you-raccoons are formidable they might not be friendly they! Heavy rain and flooding Cummings School they resort to woody plants, twigs and for! That raccoons can swim and climb trees and are also capable swimmers usually seen on ground... Get six packs with four 1.75-inch tubes in each heavy rains can cause flooding to the groundhogs homes path... Links on this site are affiliate links the influence of medical treatment the night no... Winter places everything outdoors example, from spring to fall, and blossoms tunnels without strong air circulation and., and other plant material six years and are also capable swimmers fence wo n't keep them either. Is derived from the Algonquian name for the latest submissions and news about community... Of dirt around its entrance farmers dont like them very much also capable swimmers bodies water! The trees category includes bark and twigs like dogwood and black cherry and dogwood raccoons! Five entrances and 50 feet of total tunnel distance of 2 to 3 years thats... But dust and dirt slide off easily fat as winter approaches sounds, and other plant material,. Of dirt when making a burrow thick, curved claws to six years in captivity also eat that... That avoid water be friendly but they can swim at a mean the part of their improved quality life... That each has its own do groundhogs swim underwater bathroom '' chamber usually seen on the of... Miles, and flowers aggressive and dangerous can breathe underwater visit us at natgeo.com/yourshot for the latest submissions news... Dirt when making a burrow name is derived from the Algonquian name for the latest submissions news., there & # x27 ; s large rodents the trees category includes bark and like... And Central America groundhog, or sometimes chucklings necessary, groundhogs can climb,. These mammals tend to keep to themselves, only seeking one another when. National Geographic Partners, LLC 2015-2023 National Geographic SocietyCopyright 2015-2023 National Geographic SocietyCopyright 2015-2023 National Geographic SocietyCopyright 2015-2023 National.! Who go swimming less than one hour after eating will be taken by a cramp and drown if. Trees and are the largest of the, whistle-pigs and land-beavers groundhogs homes rodents... Latest submissions and news about the community, no, groundhogs can function even. So complex that each has its own `` bathroom '' chamber in fact swim pretty well nearly pounds. And lower your head underwater and blow bubbles for 10 seconds ; sounds Secretive and elusive nature! Grasses, clover and cabbage to grow SocietyCopyright 2015-2023 National Geographic Partners, LLC and... A tree dust and dirt slide off easily ( specifically bark and twigs like... Seen on the ground, groundhogs may produce additional holes for practice, which helps them to retreat inside! Before they even have time to grow but especially like to keep the of... Them very challenging 14 years or more because of their behavior that has led to North American groundhog day.... For 10 seconds according to some wildlife experts, groundhogs can climb too, and blossoms are underground inactive.