Groundhog vs. Woodchuck: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Harlon Moss || Updated on November 16, 2023
There is no difference between a groundhog and a woodchuck; they are two names for the same animal, Marmota monax, a type of large ground squirrel.
Key Differences
Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are part of the squirrel family and are known for their burrowing habits.
Woodchucks are referred to as groundhogs in many regions, and these names are used interchangeably.
These rodents are known for their ability to climb trees and swim, despite their name suggesting they might chuck wood, they do not.
Groundhogs or woodchucks are famous for their association with Groundhog Day, a tradition where the animal predicts the weather.
Comparison Chart
Marmota monax
Marmota monax
None
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Also known as woodchuck
Also known as groundhog
None
Member of the squirrel family
Member of the squirrel family
None
Burrows in the ground
Burrows in the ground
None
Associated with Groundhog Day
Associated with Groundhog Day
None
Groundhog and Woodchuck Definitions
Groundhog
A groundhog is also known as a woodchuck.
The groundhog is a skilled burrower.
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Woodchuck
A woodchuck is also known as a groundhog.
The woodchuck has sharp claws for digging.
Groundhog
A groundhog is a large ground squirrel.
The groundhog emerged from its burrow.
Woodchuck
A woodchuck is a large ground squirrel.
The woodchuck is hibernating for the winter.
Groundhog
A groundhog belongs to the marmot species.
The groundhog is part of the squirrel family.
Woodchuck
A woodchuck can be found in North America.
The woodchuck is often seen in fields and meadows.
Groundhog
A groundhog can be found in North America.
The groundhog is common in the eastern United States.
Woodchuck
A woodchuck belongs to the marmot species.
The woodchuck is a good swimmer.
Groundhog
A groundhog is associated with Groundhog Day.
The groundhog saw its shadow on Groundhog Day.
Woodchuck
A woodchuck is associated with Groundhog Day.
The woodchuck did not see its shadow today.
Groundhog
See woodchuck.
Woodchuck
A large burrowing rodent (Marmota monax) of northern and eastern North America, having a short-legged, heavyset body and grizzled brownish fur. Also called groundhog; also called regionally whistle pig.
Groundhog
A red-brown marmot, Marmota monax, native to North America.
Woodchuck
A rodent of the family Sciuridae, belonging to the group of large ground squirrels known as marmots, Marmota monax.
Groundhog
(rare) The aardvark.
Woodchuck
A common large North American marmot (Arctomys monax). It is usually reddish brown, more or less grizzled with gray. It makes extensive burrows, and is often injurious to growing crops. Called also ground hog.
Groundhog
A reddish brown North American burrowing marmot (Marmota monax), also called the woodchuck. It hibernates in the winter.
Woodchuck
The yaffle, or green woodpecker.
Groundhog
Reddish brown North American marmot
Woodchuck
Reddish brown North American marmot
FAQs
What is a groundhog?
A groundhog is a type of large ground squirrel.
What family does the groundhog belong to?
The groundhog belongs to the squirrel family.
What is another name for a groundhog?
Another name for a groundhog is woodchuck.
Is the woodchuck associated with any tradition?
Yes, the woodchuck is associated with Groundhog Day.
What is the lifespan of a woodchuck?
The lifespan of a woodchuck is around 6 years.
Can a woodchuck climb trees?
Yes, woodchucks can climb trees.
Is the groundhog associated with any tradition?
Yes, the groundhog is associated with Groundhog Day.
What is a woodchuck?
A woodchuck is a type of large ground squirrel.
What is another name for a woodchuck?
Another name for a woodchuck is groundhog.
What family does the woodchuck belong to?
The woodchuck belongs to the squirrel family.
What is the difference between a groundhog and a woodchuck?
There is no difference; they are two names for the same animal.
Where can groundhogs be found?
Groundhogs can be found in North America.
What is the lifespan of a groundhog?
The lifespan of a groundhog is around 6 years.
How does a groundhog contribute to the ecosystem?
Groundhogs contribute to the ecosystem by aerating soil with their burrows.
Can a groundhog climb trees?
Yes, groundhogs can climb trees.
Where can woodchucks be found?
Woodchucks can be found in North America.
How does a groundhog protect itself?
A groundhog protects itself by burrowing underground.
What does a groundhog eat?
Groundhogs eat plants, fruits, and vegetables.
What does a woodchuck eat?
Woodchucks eat plants, fruits, and vegetables.
How does a woodchuck protect itself?
A woodchuck protects itself by burrowing underground.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
