Woodchuck (Marmota monax) in the wild — Catch'Um species field guide

Woodchuck (Marmota monax) wildlife photograph

Overview

Woodchucks (groundhogs) are large burrowing marmots of eastern and central North America. Stocky brown bodies and short legs suit a life of digging extensive burrows in fields, roadsides, and woodland edges, whistling alarms and hibernating through winter.

For US collectors, the woodchuck is an everyday countryside mammal — roadside burrow, upright lookout pose, and Groundhog Day fame wrapped around a common marmot.

Scientific nameMarmota monax
Length40–65 cm including tail
Weight2–6 kg
LifespanAround 3–6 years in the wild
DietGrasses
ConservationLeast Concern
RegionEastern US Fields & Edges

Habitat

Field edge
Roadside embankment
Meadow
Woodland clearing

Open fields, meadows, roadsides, and woodland edges across the eastern and central United States where deep soils allow burrow systems.

Countries found

Woodchuck in United States

Field notes

Field scale for the Woodchuck: length around 40-65 cm including tail; weight 2-6 kg. Typical lifespan: Around 3-6 years in the wild.

When you are scanning habitat, prioritise field edge, roadside embankment, meadow, and woodland clearing. Those settings are where a clean look and a usable photo are most likely.

Quick ID anchor: Stocky brown marmot with short legs, a bushy tail, and a blunt face. Confirm with behaviour and habitat before you log the discovery.

Diet

Grasses, clover, plantain, and other green vegetation.

Also browse bark, buds, and garden vegetables when available.

Behaviour

Diurnal; forage near burrows and dive underground when alarmed.

Hibernate in winter dens; whistle sharp alarms to warn neighbours.

How to identify

Stocky brown marmot with short legs, a bushy tail, and a blunt face.

Often seen upright at burrow mounds along fields and roadsides.

Interesting facts

01
Also called groundhog or whistle pig.
02
True hibernators that sleep through cold winters.
03
Dig complex burrows with multiple entrances.
04
Stand upright on hind legs to scan for danger.
05
Herbivores eating grasses, clover, and garden crops.
06
Famous in US folklore for Groundhog Day weather lore.

Conservation status

LC: Least Concern

Woodchucks are Least Concern and common across much of their range. They thrive in agricultural and suburban edges, though vehicles and pest control cause local mortality.

Sources: IUCN Red List