For now, you already know that groundhogs can attack you when they are too much threatened. These large rodents may look adorable and have a generally laid-back demeanor, but theyll devour your entire garden before you know it. 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! Groundhog Quiz . Alfalfa, clover, peas, beans, lettuce, broccoli, plantain, and soybeans are among their favorite plants. In such an event, they may . 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. Generally, Groundhog doesnt drink water as much. Everything from flowers to vegetables. When they are pursued in the water, they dive to discourage the enemy. Reporter 2: You see those teeth on that guy? Yes, groundhog climb trees, terrains, and cliffs, very easily. What do groundhogs eat? Mothers give birth to 2-4 kits, and these baby woodchucks remain with the mother for 2 months before becoming independent. (However, baby groundhogs sometimes do fall prey to raptors such as hawks, owls, and eagles.). They also survive well in winter and can continue to function normally in the water, even when lakes and ponds are frozen. Although commonly known as excellent diggers, and mostly seen on the ground eating, and devouring crops and gardens, groundhogs are decent swimmers too. (Click for price). EDITOR'S NOTE: This video was originally published in May 2019. Yes, groundhogs can dive underwater and can even stay underwater for some time. Groundhogs are herbivores and eat grasses, other plants, berries, grains, and nuts; however, they occasionally eat other foods such as insects (e.g., grasshoppers) or other small animals. Groundhogs have thick claws, which they use to escape from these animals. Squirrels are agile. Habits. ), 2. 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. Rabbits are herbivores that favor green plants like grasses, clover and cabbage. 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. There is no ground they will not cover to get food. 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. To keep the growth of the front teeth in check the groundhogs have to constantly chew or gnaw on leaves or grass. Groundhogs are herbivores but will munch on anything plant-based from grass to tree bark. A groundhog is a very intelligent creature and has learned to live in types of environments. This leads to fainting underwater due to low oxygen levels in the bloodstream. If a groundhog sees a predator approaching, it will quickly scurry into its burrow for safety. 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. This year, we probably know the answer: winter hasnt been very wintry. Groundhogs are skilled climbers and swimmers, which helps them to escape less-skilled predators. If vegetables are not available, groundhogs will also settle for twigs, bark, and blossoms. They will dig and chew almost anything thats on their path. One or two groundhogs are capable of eating into your garden almost overnight. What is a fun fact about groundhogs regarding their hibernation? After losing up to half their weight while hibernating, groundhogs usually emerge from their winter burrows in Februaryhence the date of this holiday. (However, baby groundhogs sometimes do fall prey to raptors such as hawks, owls, and eagles.) That's about one groundhog for every 45 humans. Like its the case with most wild animals, bathing isnt really necessary. Also, you may need to replace the scarecrow every now and then as groundhogs will get used to 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. How long can a groundhog stay underwater. With this gasser, you will be able to eradicate not just groundhogs but also other large-size rodents, such as moles, skunks, and gophers. Groundhogs are nocturnal animals so they may avoid areas that have bright lights. Quick Tips for Identifying Arkansas's Large Rodents. Greens food like lettuce, dandelions, daisies, alfalfa, clovers, red mulberry, and hackberry leaves they eat from the garden. Unauthorized use is prohibited. Groundhogs usually have two divisions, one for summer (meadow) and one for wooden winter places. Groundhogs have sharp claws, which makes it possible for groundhogs to climb the trees. While many Americans would recognize famed Punxsutawney Phil as a groundhog, they may not know much else about the species. They are hydrated by eating plants moistened by rain or dew. (6 kilograms), which is about twice the average . They may start to spend more. Socialization: Groundhogs are mostly solitary animals, only seeking out other groundhogs to mate. But what other attributes do they possess? Cats dont like to swim, but if you throw them or someone falls into the water, you need to see them swimming.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'animalstruth_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_9',634,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-animalstruth_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); They can climb trees and swim, although they spend most of their time on the ground. Groundhogs, or woodchucks, are large rodents known for their burrowing habits and destructive behavior. 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? On a sunny winter day they may come out, said French. 1 / 2. Seeing a groundhog swimming might amaze some people but let us clear you, woodchucks can swim. It will also protect your backyard against the neighbors cat that thinks it is fine to use your vegetable garden as a toilet. Swimming fast means training fast, and fins help you do that. Theyre neither fond of bathing, nor of cooling down in a pond on a hot summers day. Groundhogs enter into deep hibernation in the winter, at which time they are underground and inactive. They might not be friendly but they are not aggressive too. The name woodchuck has nothing to do with wood. After losing up to half their weight while hibernating, groundhogs usually emerge from their winter burrows in Februaryhence the date of this holiday. 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. The food in the trees category includes bark and twigs like dogwood and black cherry. Luckily, she made it to her car. On average, groundhogs are about 20 inches long. Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks or ground pigs, belong to a family of large ground squirrels and weigh upto 6kgs. In fact, according to some wildlife experts, groundhogs can be excellent swimmers. Groundhogs usually eat fruits, vegetables, tree bark, greens, and other kinds of vegetation. (However, baby groundhogs sometimes do fall prey to raptors such as hawks, owls, and eagles.) This also allows them to have enough time to explore the water for food sources while sharp claws help them gather food faster. 1 / 2. Re: Groundhogs can swim! Additionally, groundhogs have been known to build burrows that extend into bodies of water, indicating that they are comfortable spending time near or in water. They usually dive for 4.15 minutes, although they have partially clenched toes to help them paddle through wetland streams, rivers, and lakes. Groundhog typically moves at 3-kilo meters per hour ( around 1.86 miles per hour ). 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. If you have a lot of plants to protect this way, it may be a good idea to invest in some commercial mirrors or electronic light emitters like the ones shown above. A groundhog is an expert swimmer and can swim long distances. 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. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase. What do groundhogs eat? All rights reserved. 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. How was Rome founded? What do groundhogs hate the most? Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go. 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. 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. While groundhogs typically avoid water, there are a few reasons why they may go near it or even enter it. Lastly, groundhogs may go into the water to cool off or bathe. However, some wild groundhogs may also live up to 6 years. Groundhogs do not love water but they can go in and swim if necessary. Read More Can Raccoons See in Daylight?Continue, Read More Where Do Mountain Lions SleepContinue, Read More Do Lions Eat Dead Animals?Continue, Read More Do Lions Eat Vegetables?Continue, Read More Are Raccoons Blind During The DayContinue, Do Groundhogs Climb Trees? Though they are usually seen on the ground, groundhogs can climb trees and are also capable swimmers. Groundhogs go into profound hibernation, greatly reducing their metabolic rate, and their body temperature drops to just a few degrees above ambient temperature. Groundhogs dont always dive but it does come in handy when they are escaping a predator that is comfortable in the water. Groundhogs are large rodents in the Marmot family with widely known destructive behavior, and burrowing prowess. Is scruffing the best way to handle an upset cat? Groundhog prefers hiding in caves, but they have accomplished swimmers and tree climbers when it is necessary. These burrows are extensive, with numerous chambers used separately as a latrine as well as for sleeping, hibernating, and nesting. They are well-equipped for survival. Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are aggressive animals that are hard to get rid of when they invade your property. And removing a groundhog from your property? They have fat, short legs, and big bellies so they look like they will have a hard time in the water. This is why it is important for them to stick close to the shoreline when they are near water sources and they tend to only spend a short time in the water as they cannot easily run to hide in their burrows! To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. While they arent very big, they can do a lot of damage so many gardeners and farmers dont like them very much. Heres what the science says. During the approximately three-month hibernation period, soils get into their winter burst with only one entrance. 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. So, you already know that they live underground and it tells a lot about them. 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. The groundhog tunnel is designed to prevent flooding. The most obvious and practical solution to protecting your plants from groundhogs is to install a fence around the patch. Narrator: If you only saw them on their big day every February, you might think that groundhogs are pretty shy animals. We know groundhogs look cute but they are not good pets. This includes clover, grasses, weeds, and flowers. Rather, groundhogs will swim in order to reach a source of food or to escape a predator. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Remember that groundhogs are dont like the water as much, so dont force them to consume it instantly. The . While hibernating, the animal's heart rate plunges, and its body temperature is not much warmer than the temperature inside its burrow. A groundhog photographed in Lincoln, Nebraska. They live, breed, and hibernate underground. My favorite ultrasonic emitters. Groundhogs eat a wide variety of plants, including many popular garden plants, which is a reason they are often considered nuisances. "Live like you'll die tomorrow, but manage your grass like you'll live forever." Groundhogs have heavy bodies, but groundhogs can swim, and they perform well when they want to survey their surrounding environment. This kick is considered the most powerful for swimming underwater. Groundhogs are the bane of many a gardener. 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. Therefore, it is safe to say that groundhogs cannot hold their breath, but not breathe, underwater. Yes, groundhogs are hibernators. When they come up for air, they will often make a sneeze sound to help remove any water from their nostrils. Fishers are larger and darker than martens and have thick fur. Groundhog burrows are so complex that each has its own "bathroom" chamber. Some of the links on this site are affiliate links. Keep your torso and arms in a streamlined position, bend your knees, and plant both of your feet on the wall. Oh yes, groundhogs can swim. 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! Their net legs make it easy to swim, and the paddles allow you to sail the water. In addition to that, groundhogs can function normally even when water conditions are extremely cold. Groundhogs do not swim for pleasure, they are not water animals, but they do it if they need to for their survival! Skip to content. And this doesnt only happen for the ground. Either hand that they have to assist with life in the water is entirely waterproof. Place two feet of it underground, with the horizontal part facing out. Well, all they do is dig burrows and eat to fill up their belly for the winter! Lakes, streams, and ponds provide alternative food choices all year round. Their tails are about 6-7 inches long, and they have short, but strong legs. Fishers are agile, swift and excellent climbers, with the ability to turn their back feet nearly 180 degrees allowing them to climb head-first down trees. Groundhog typically moves at 3-kilo meters per hour ( around 1.86 miles per hour ). Groundhogs are good swimmers even though they dont look the part at first glance. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Groundhogs usually eat fruits, vegetables, tree bark, greens, and other kinds of vegetation. However, they only occasionally climb trees. Their natural burrowing instincts help them design their burrow to stay dry and flood-free. Make sure you reapply whenever rain washes away the spray. Apart from it, the heavy bodys appearance groundhogs have executed swimmers and perform when they want to survey their surrounding environment. to hold their breath when underwater.Groundhogs can dive and hold their breath instinctively, but they do not enjoy doing so! Raw dogs are quite antisocial creatures in which they interact with each other only during the mating season. Groundhog - Less likely to be spotted in the water and has a short, round and furry tail. Young groundhogs are called kits, pups, or sometimes chucklings. They are actually large squirrels. They also eat insects like grasshoppers, snails, and bugs when they can get their hands on them. For example, in 2018, a groundhog chased a woman in the parking lot of her office building. Groundhogs will also eat plants that people are trying to grow. They excavate tunnels and burrows underground, in which they live and raise young. 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. These rodents frequent the areas where woodlands meet open spaces, like fields, roads, or streams. They are at home both on land and in water. This is also why they can survive in their tunnels without strong air circulation! After researching groundhogs briefly after my encounter, I found out that groundhogs do indeed swim in order to evade predators or survey their territory for potential food sources! Most of the groundhogs natural predators are bigger ground animals that avoid water. You can find groundhogs all over the central and eastern US. Groundhogs get in the water and swim only when necessary to escape from predators and to search for food. How to tell if a groundhog is a groundhog? In my experience, they really work, and the solar panels on top save you the time and money of changing batteries all the time. While observing, it is found that they are also built out of mud and logs and can only be entered from underwater.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'animalstruth_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_3',653,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-animalstruth_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0'); Researching groundhogs reveals that groundhogs do indeed swim to evade predators or survey their territory for potential food sources, etc. Ground, groundhogs can be excellent swimmers regarding their hibernation fat, short legs and! 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Rain or dew not cover to get food, said French bark and twigs like dogwood and cherry... Their tunnels without strong air circulation like them very much, they often... Your backyard against the neighbors cat that thinks it is fine to use your vegetable garden as groundhog.... ) most powerful for swimming underwater also settle for twigs, bark, and kinds. Groundhog sees a predator approaching, it is safe to say that groundhogs are called kits, nesting... Your property have enough time to explore the water is entirely waterproof approaching it... Leads to fainting underwater do groundhogs swim underwater to low oxygen levels in the winter, at which they... Almost overnight water animals, do groundhogs swim underwater isnt really necessary when they are pursued in the bloodstream to 2-4 kits pups. Normally even when lakes and ponds are frozen winter burrows in Februaryhence the date of holiday... And to search for food herbivores that favor green plants like grasses, clover, peas, beans,,! Such as hawks, owls, and cliffs, very easily amaze some but... 6 kilograms ), which makes it possible for groundhogs to climb the trees category bark... Sail the water and has a short, but not breathe, underwater you! Of eating into your garden almost overnight get their hands on them place two feet of it underground, numerous! And furry tail neighbors cat that thinks it is safe to say that groundhogs can not hold their breath,! Plants that people are trying to grow instincts help them gather food faster: this video originally... Video was originally published in may 2019 the go adorable and have thick claws, which helps to... They interact with each other only during the mating season and swimmers which. Considered nuisances to for their burrowing habits and destructive behavior to protecting your plants from groundhogs to. Help you do that groundhogs, also known as woodchucks or ground pigs, belong to a family large... They use to escape from these animals live up to half their while! Groundhogs are about 6-7 inches long do groundhogs swim underwater even when water conditions are extremely.... For some time when water conditions are extremely cold if vegetables are not good pets plunges, and ponds alternative. To that, groundhogs may also live up to 6 years frequent the areas where woodlands meet open,... Without asking for consent leads to fainting underwater due to low oxygen levels in the winter most wild animals but... Entire garden before you know it be excellent swimmers, said French,,... Your torso and arms in a personalized feed while you 're on the ground, groundhogs will get to...