Wildlife Removal Services Inc.

Woodchuck

Biology:   Woodchucks are primarily active during daylight hours.  They prefer open farmland and surrounding wooded or brushy areas.  Burrows are commonly located in fields and pastures, along fence rows, stone walls and near building foundations.

Mating Habits:   Woodchucks breed in March and April. 

Gestation Period:   Approximately 32 days is normal.

Birthing Times:   April to May.

Litter Size:   A single litter of 2 to 4 young is produced each season.  The litter is weaned by late June or early July.

Life Span:  Approximately 3 to 6 years.

Foods:  Vegetables, grasses, and legumes including soybeans, beans, peas, clover, and alfalfa.

Hibernation:   Among the few mammals that enter into true hibernation.  Hibernation usually starts near the end of October or early November, but varies with latitude, and continues until February or March. In northern latitudes, torpor can start earlier and end later.  Males usually come out of hibernation before females.

Legal Status:  In most states woodchucks are considered game animals.  They are not protected by federal law, but state & local regulations may apply.

Catch & Release Status:  It is ILLEGAL to release this or any animal on the land(s) of another without written permission from the landowner.  This is the LAW in the state of Ohio.