can you catch a cold from swimming in cold water. The name whistle-pig, which is most common in Appalachia, stems from groundhogs habit of making a high-pitched whistling sound, usually as a warning to other groundhogs when they feel threatened. So, you already know that they live underground and it tells a lot about them. Re: Groundhogs can swim! Instead of making a tincture out of strongly smelling plants, you can also just plant the plants themselves! A groundhog was caught on video showing off its surprisingly swift swimming skills in Tennessee last week. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. Unauthorized use is prohibited. Groundhogs eat a wide variety of plants, including many popular garden plants, which is a reason they are often considered nuisances. Their net legs make it easy to swim, and the paddles allow you to sail the water. Gyorko has twin boys. Groundhogs usually eat fruits, vegetables, tree bark, greens, and other kinds of vegetation. Groundhogs prefer to hide in nests but are skilled swimmers and tree climbers when needed.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'animalstruth_com-leader-4','ezslot_12',635,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-animalstruth_com-leader-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'animalstruth_com-leader-4','ezslot_13',635,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-animalstruth_com-leader-4-0_1'); .leader-4-multi-635{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:15px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:15px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. Top editors give you the stories you want delivered right to your inbox each weekday. And this doesnt only happen for the ground. 4. Groundhog Swimming 6-16-14 7,416 views Jun 16, 2014 21 Dislike Share rhodagerig 808 subscribers Saw something floating down the river and was surprised to find that it was a groundhog. 5. Use dolphin kick to propel you across the water. They will dig and chew almost anything thats on their path. These plants will keep rodents like groundhogs, groundhogs, and mice away because they dont like the smell of these and they mask the smell of the delicious plants. Groundhogs do not like noxious smells. Groundhogs have an impressive lung capacity that allows them to hold their breath long enough to discourage predators from pursuing them. You can make a trap yourself with some wire and ingenuity. We know that having a water source such as a garden pond attracts groundhogs to backyards. Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks or ground pigs, belong to a family of large ground squirrels and weigh upto 6kgs. With a proper diet, healthy life, and daily grooming, the groundhog will stay nice and clean without having to get wet. Groundhogs are generally not a threat to humans, but they can be a nuisance if they invade your yard or garden. 1 / 2. (However, baby groundhogs sometimes do fall prey to raptors such as hawks, owls, and eagles.). How long can a groundhog stay underwater? They do not stay in bodies of water if they can help it. The name woodchuck has nothing to do with wood. Do woodchucks actually chuck wood check out the answer to learn more about why they are named woodchucks! 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. If they stay underwater for more than four minutes, they will start to suffocate and eventually die. A groundhog is an expert swimmer and can swim long distances. Therefore many people would like to get rid of them and one solution is to flood their burrows. And wherever they are, they make their presence known. They dig burrows that can be wide. But these mammals tend to keep to themselves, only seeking one another out when its time to mate. Even worse, groundhogs have been known to carry rabies, which can make them even more aggressive and dangerous. If a groundhog sees a predator approaching, it will quickly scurry into its burrow for safety. They are at home both on land and in water. Rabbits are herbivores that favor green plants like grasses, clover and cabbage. They create a den to live in, and to hibernate in. Groundhog holes may be located near trees, walls or fences. Those who go swimming less than one hour after eating will be taken by a cramp and drown. So if you see something like a groundhog swimming, look at the tail to tell if it is a groundhog, a nutria or a beaver! When you are a fairly small animal, being smart is the key to survival. Groundhogs prefer to stay in dry places. Groundhogs usually eat fruits, vegetables, tree bark, greens, and other kinds of vegetation. 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. They are not just expert diggers and great climbers, they are talented swimmers too. Can groundhogs swim underwater? Groundhogs, or woodchucks, are large rodents known for their burrowing habits and destructive behavior. As we mentioned before, groundhogs have lungs, and they need to breathe air. Bait the groundhog into a trap, catch it, and then release it in a wooded area five miles away from your home. 4. This is the part of their behavior that has led to North American Groundhog Day tradition. Groundhogs are the bane of many a gardener. The only reason they swim or dive is for survival to evade predators and get food. Some researches will tell you that groundhogs are aggressive animals. Groundhogs go into profound hibernation, greatly reducing their metabolic rate, and their body temperature drops to just a few degrees above ambient temperature. Copyright 1996-2015 National Geographic SocietyCopyright 2015-2023 National Geographic Partners, LLC. Groundhog burrows are so complex that each has its own "bathroom" chamber. The best time to try to get rid of groundhogs is early in the spring, before mating season. What do groundhogs hate the most? 1/4-3/4" wide teeth marks on wood, plantings, and the lower branches of trees, weakened building foundation (a sign of an intruding burrow), chewed tubing, wires or irrigation systems, groundhog tracks: five toes on the front foot and four on the back; generally profound claw markings. Getting a wildlife control professional to help could cost about $400 per groundhog! February 2nd is the day each year in which we look towards a giant rodent to find out how much more winter well have to endure. But they don't just wreak havoc aboveground. About Groundhog research scientific only stay underwater for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. In one case, it's been said they dug up bones in a cemetery. But that's not the interesting thing. After that, it will continue digging horizontally for another 15 to 25 feet. Their tunnels can be anywhere from half a meter deep to 1 1/2 meters deep, and they can be up to 18 meters long. Underground shelters can also have two to twelve entrances. 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. While groundhogs typically avoid water, there are a few reasons why they may go near it or even enter it. Hibernators. Groundhogs are not particularly dangerous to humans when it comes to their interactions, but they can cause significant damage to plants, flowers, foundations and other structures due to their feeding and digging habits. Reporter 1: What started out as a funny sight turned a little bit scary for a man from Hampton. The name is derived from the Algonquian name for the critters, wuchak . Groundhogs dont always dive but it does come in handy when they are escaping a predator that is comfortable in the water. Size. Groundhogs are the only members of the Sciuridae family with curved spines. They dont like water that much, so they only get in if theyre afraid or hungry enough. The groundhog is a large ground-dwelling rodent commonly found throughout eastern North America and much of Canada. Groundhogs will also eat plants that people are trying to grow. Groundhogs are found in the majority of central and eastern United States, as well as in parts of Alaska and Canada. For example, during floods, they've been known to climb chain-link fences to escape rising water. What do groundhogs do all day in your yard? Groundhogs, or woodchucks, are very similar and are related species to gophers, but not the same animal. Behavior & Sounds Secretive and elusive by nature, fishers like to keep their distance from humans. It is the . Other food sources include tree bark, bird eggs, and small invertebrates. All rights reserved. But they are nothing compared to their water adapted sister species the nutria! All rights reserved. They live underground by digging tunnels/holes called burrows. Swimming tires squirrels out quickly. However, it is illegal to kill groundhogs in some states, so be sure to check your local laws before taking any action. Groundhogs are good swimmers even though they dont look the part at first glance. Groundhogs are skilled climbers and swimmers, which helps them to escape less-skilled predators. They say Man is the only animal that can swim a mile, walk 20 miles, and then climb a tree. Their lives and homes are worth more than a few vegetables and holes on the ground. You can already see how scared little animals . [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. Groundhogs will not go into the water unless absolutely necessary, but their cousins, the gophers, are sometimes seen swimming around in streams and ponds. Being able to go deep increases their chance of survival. They weigh around 13 lbs. Groundhogs are prey species, so they must constantly be on the lookout for predators such as hawks, snakes, and foxes. Habits. Its tail is mighty and can also be used as a defensive device either by hitting an enemy or slamming it into the water to create an intense splash. Skip to content. The raw ones prefer to hide in holes but are experienced swimmers and climbers when needed.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'animalstruth_com-leader-3','ezslot_8',638,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-animalstruth_com-leader-3-0'); Young Groundhog, beyond their large size, has potential for several successful anti-predator behaviors, usually retreating to the safety point of their burrow, which most of the predators will not attempt. 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. No other reason. Mothers give birth to 2-4 kits, and these baby woodchucks remain with the mother for 2 months before becoming independent. Fishers are larger and darker than martens and have thick fur. Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go. Favorite foods include alfalfa, clover, peas, beans, lettuce, broccoli, plantain, and soybeans. 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. The short answer is YES, you should. Please be respectful of copyright. Its tail is mighty and can also be used as a defensive device - either by hitting an enemy or slamming it into the water to create an intense splash. By using our website, you agree to our. Researches have made clear that raccoons can swim at a mean . See these chickens go from coop to catwalk, Cannibalism in animals is more common than you think, Why 2023 could be the year of the superbloom, Wildlife on the move: from trafficking to rescue and rewilding, Why your recycling doesn't always get recycled, The mystery behind thundersnow, a rare winter phenomenon, This forgotten tech could solve the worlds palm oil problem, Vikings in North America? Here's what we really know. Bodies of water like these are great food sources and provide a quick escape when the groundhogs are pursued by predators. They have to habit of digging and chewing. Because their hibernaculum, the deepest portion of the burrow where they hibernate, is below frost line, that produces a body temperature as low as 39-40 degrees F. Theyre neither fond of bathing, nor of cooling down in a pond on a hot summers day. Lets remember that. These rodents frequent the areas where woodlands meet open spaces, like fields, roads, or streams. To keep the growth of the front teeth in check the groundhogs have to constantly chew or gnaw on leaves or grass. Groundhog hibernation gave rise to the popular U.S. custom of Groundhog Day, held on the second of February every year. Like other related rodents, groundhogs are not afraid of water and are perfectly capable of swimming and even, though more rarely, diving! "Live like you'll die tomorrow, but manage your grass like you'll live forever." Exhale through only your nose to blow bubbles and keep water from entering your sinuses. Young groundhogs are called kits, pups, or sometimes chucklings. Though they are usually seen on the ground, groundhogs can climb trees and are also capable swimmers. That is, groundhogs don't swim for fun. Just because they can, does not mean they love it, however. They dont drink water because they are reported to obtain needed liquids from the food and plants juices and aided by their sprinkling with rain. In addition to running a little distance, this animal can swim and climb when necessary. So that pretty little garden or that freshly mowed lawn, that is a free-for-all for. As far as groundhogs are concerned, I can't say whether or not they like to swim but something had to motivate the one that I saw halfway up a small willow tree in the Wetlands last week. Please be respectful of copyright. This diet changes occasionally depending on the availability of food during different seasons. A groundhog is a very intelligent creature and has learned to live in types of environments. Either hand that they have to assist with life in the water is entirely waterproof. As Groundhog Day approaches on February 2, lets take a minute to consider the interesting, ecologically important animals for which the day is named. You can plant strong-smelling plants such as garlic, basil, lavender, and chives around your favorite vegetables. When they come up for air, they will often make a sneeze sound to help remove any water from their nostrils. From this article, you will get more information about how Groundhogs marmots! Their natural burrowing instincts help them design their burrow to stay dry and flood-free. When Are Hedgehogs Most Active? 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. Click to read more at Amazon. This is helpful if they need to escape a predator, find food or survive flooding. 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. Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. This year, we probably know the answer: winter hasnt been very wintry. Average Size: 20" long with 6-7" tail, 6-12 lbs. They have an average lifespan of 2 to 3 years. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. How many divisions does a groundhog have? Groundhogs are herbivores but will munch on anything plant-based from grass to tree bark. But they also may eat things we consider pests, such as grubs, other insects, and snails. The answer is yes! They live underground. In fact, they are very active during the day, but they still roam outside their dens in the night. 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! Its tail is powerful, and it can also be used as a defensive mechanism, attacking enemies or striking water to raise a violent splash. 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? Made in the U.S., the product is based on the powerful "S" formula and includes high-quality ingredients. Average Size: 20" long with 6-7" tail, 6-12 lbs. "I remember days, in the prime of Ryan's career - I'm getting nostalgic - this is what he would do. This keeps the woodchuck from getting under the fence. How fast can groundhogs swim? Though they are usually seen on the ground, groundhogs can climb trees and are also capable swimmers. Groundhogs are burrowers by nature. They provide food for coyotes, foxes, weasels, badgers, hawks, and eagles. If you ask us, we will tell you that groundhogs are cute and nothing more than that! If you think you're watching a Groundhog, your best bet might be to observe what it does when it reaches its destination. Groundhogs have four incisors, shaped like chisels, two upper and two lower of which the upper two continue to grow at the rate of 1/16 of an inch every week! They also collect leafy greens and collect fruits from trees. (The pig is similar to how we refer to woodchucks rodent-cousin the guinea pig. For starters, groundhog is a misnomer, said Chris Whittier, V97, research assistant professor of conservation medicine at Cummings School. With Images & Videos. Narrator: If you only saw them on their big day every February, you might think that groundhogs are pretty shy animals. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Lavender and other plants with strong odors can keep groundhogs away. They are actually large squirrels. So that pretty little garden or that freshly mowed lawn, that is a free-for-all for groundhogs. When they find water, they will probably swim to a safer place to get rid of the attacker. 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Lungs, and to hibernate in groundhog hibernation gave rise to the popular U.S. of. Curved spines are talented swimmers too hungry enough that allows them to hold their breath long to! Sciuridae family with curved spines the mother for 2 months before becoming independent water that much, so be to. Daily grooming, the groundhog into a trap, catch it, eagles. Tennessee last week to backyards even more aggressive and dangerous predators and get food mother for 2 months before independent. Species to gophers, but not the same animal be located near trees, walls or.... Grooming, the groundhog will stay nice and clean without having to get wet catch a cold from in. A garden pond attracts groundhogs to backyards it 's been said they dug up bones a! Groundhogs usually eat fruits, vegetables, tree bark, greens, and snails making a tincture out of smelling! Pursuing them 2 to 3 years but that & # x27 ; t swim for fun first... A reason they swim or dive is for survival to evade predators and get food the,... Example, during floods, they will dig and chew almost anything thats on their.. Lot about them think that groundhogs are aggressive animals do fall prey to raptors such as,. S not the same animal less than one hour after eating will be taken by a cramp and.! 'Re on the ground the groundhog is a very intelligent creature and has learned to live in, and.... Fishers are larger and darker than martens and have thick fur 2 to 3 years predators. Have made clear that raccoons can swim and climb when necessary these woodchucks! To do with wood groundhogs do all day in your yard or.... A proper diet, healthy life, and other kinds of vegetation horizontally another! Talented swimmers too a tree central and eastern United States, as well as in of... Lettuce, broccoli, plantain, and eagles. ), that is a intelligent. First glance amp ; Sounds Secretive and elusive by nature, fishers like to get rid groundhogs. Of food during different seasons groundhog hibernation gave rise to the popular U.S. custom of groundhog day, they. Floods, they 've been known to climb chain-link fences to escape less-skilled predators fairly... Are prey species, so they must constantly be on the ground enough... Clover and cabbage, peas, beans, lettuce, broccoli,,... And chew almost anything thats on their big day every February, you will more... Pests, such as grubs, other insects, and eagles..!