Size: Groundhogs measure 16 to 26 inches in length, including a 6 inch tail. Most groundhogs weigh 4 to 9 lbs, but on ocassion some can also grow to weigh as much as 31 lbs.

Habitat: The groundhog is found in North America, primarily in Southern Canada, Alaska and the Northern United States. Groundhogs build burrows in thickets and open woodlands. In the spring and summer, groundhogs are found in meadows, open fields and pastures.

Description: Groundhogs have a dense, woolly coat of fur. Groundhogs have strong jaws and two prominent chisel-shaped incisor teeth. Groundhogs have small eyes and ears located near the top of their broad, flat head, short legs with sturdy claws that they use for burrowing.

Diet: Groundhogs are herbivores. Groundhogs eat excessive amounts during the summer and build up fat reserves. Groundhogs feed on grasses and plants as well as fruits and tree bark.

Behavior: Groundhogs are usually terrestrial but they can climb trees and are also capable swimmers. Groundhogs dig burrows, that have 2-5 enterances. The burrow's tunnels can be up to 5 feet deep and up to 45 feet in length. It is rare that a groundhog will venture more than half a mile from their burrow.

Gestation: Groundhogs carry their young for 31 - 32 days.

Birth: Groundhogs give birth to litters of 2 - 6 babies. Groundhog babies only stay with their mother for the first 5-6 weeks of their life. Babies are born blind and hairless.

Sexually Mature: Groundhogs are sexually mature between 1 - 2 years of age.