WOODCHUCK
(GROUNDHOG)

The woodchuck, which inhabits most of North America, in the South is more familiarly known as a groundhog. This name is well taken because of the vast subterranean burrows that it digs and lives in. Each burrow consists of several rooms with sleeping area located at the highest elevation and small chambers below serving for hibernation or toilet facilities. The toilet rooms are cleaned regularly and the wastes taken to the surface and buried. Deserted groundhog dens are used by foxes, raccoons, opossums and other mammals for living quarters as well as quick sanctuary from enemies.

The groundhog is a renowned weather prophet. A common legend contends that, if he leaves his burrow on February 2 and sees his shadow, six weeks of bad weather will follow. On the other hand, if the day is cloudy and no shadow is cast, spring will soon appear.

The woodchuck has a coat of silver gray and brown with underparts of a lighter hue. The head is dark brown and the feet are so brown as to be nearly black. His chunky body is carried on squat, sturdy legs. The animal has small economic value because of the low quality of its furs.

In agricultural areas or family gardens, the animal will destroy great quantities of forage and vegetables, and its burrows are dangerous to both horses and cattle. There is a definite need for control of the woodchuck in such places.

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