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Physical Characteristics: Woodchucks have grizzled brown or reddish to blackish fur, a bushy tail, small ears, and short legs. Their incisors are white (as opposed to the yellowish-brown color observed in most rodents). They are 16 - 32 inches long, 3 - 9 inches tall, and weigh 5 - 14 pounds.
Reproduction: The male seeks his mate and the two briefly
stay together after copulation. It is the only time two
adults share the same den. A litter of 4 - 5 blind, naked
babies are born in April or May. Youngsters open their eyes
and crawl at about one month of age. They tend to disperse
at about two months of age.
Longevity: 7 - 8 years.
Diet/Natural: Green vegetation such as grass, clover, alfalfa, and corn.
Diet/Zoo: Rodent chow with monkey biscuits and assorted
fruits and vegetables.
Miscellaneous: Woodchucks are sun-loving animals and are
active by day. They are good swimmers and climbers.
Their burrows are approximately 5 feet deep, 30 feet long,
and have one or more tunnels. Rabbits, opossums, raccoons,
skunks, and foxes will sometimes use abandoned woodchuck
burrows. Fat sustains the woodchuck as they go into a state
of semi-hibernation throughout the winter.
The woodchuck's major enemies include the red fox and
automobiles. When angry, they give a loud whistle (and are
sometimes called "whistle pigs") which tapers off to a
softer one. They may also chatter their teeth, hiss,
squeal, and growl.
Bibliography:
Alden, P., R. Estes, D. Schlitter, B. McBride. National Audubon Society Field Guide to African Wildlife. New York: Knopf, 1995. Pgs. 591.
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