Woodchuck
Marmota monax
About
Woodchucks, also called groundhogs, typically have one litter per year in April-May of 4-5 young. The babies are born blind and naked. By 4 weeks of age, they have their eyes open and begin to emerge from the burrow in which they were born. They are independent before reaching 3 months of age.
Found a baby woodchuck?
If woodchuck pups are found outside of the den and are cold, lethargic, and not afraid of people, they have left because the mother hasn't been there in awhile. Since woodchucks den underground, reuniting is generally not possible with this species.
Do any of the following apply?
the baby has an obvious injury
the baby has been in the mouth of a dog or cat (even if it does not appear to be injured)
flies are swarming around the baby and/or it is covered in fly eggs, which look like tiny grains of white rice. Flystrike is most often seen around the face and under the tail.
the baby is cold, wet, and/or lethargic
the mother is confirmed dead or has been illegally relocated
the baby is very small with eyes closed and has been seen outside of a den
If you answered YES to any of these prompts, call a licensed rehabilitator for advice.
If the answer to all prompts is NO, the woodchuck may be old enough to be on its own. If you're not sure, call a rehabber.
Never handle woodchucks with bare hands. If you must handle a woodchuck, use heavy gloves or a thick barrier to transfer the animal into a box.
If you see a woodchuck that appears to be sick, disoriented, or overly friendly or aggressive, reach out to a licensed rehabilitator. Some towns may have Animal Control that are willing to respond or assess the situation. Keep pets and children away from the animal.
