Breed Standard The Woodchuck, also known as the Groundhog is a large member of the rodent family that truly embodies the vision of the American and Canadian outdoors. In the wild, the Woodchuck burrows deep into the ground, making a suitable den for protection, feeding and sleeping. They are known to be excellent diggers, having powerful front claws to dig deep into the earth, with amazing speed. They eat almost any type of wild plant, feeding on the vegetation found in the forest habitat they prefer. Twigs and branches in addition to bark are eaten in the spring, in addition Woodchucks may also feed on insects and occasionally baby birds that fall from nests.
Woodchucks are in no danger of becoming extinct, even with the threat of deforestation.
Woodchucks have managed to make good use of the woodlots and pastureland that have replaced their native habitats. They hibernate in the winter, in the truest sense of the word. Food is stored for months leading up to the wintertime, and they become quite fat before heading into their dens for a winter's nap. The Woodchuck is an uncommon pet, but those who keep them report that they are affectionate pets. The Woodchuck is one of the largest species of rodent.