Woodchucks, otherwise known as groundhogs, are an important part of American culture—but you can appreciate them without having to deal with them chomping down on your garden! That’s one reason why American Bio-Tech in Connecticut practices humane animal control with these and other mischievous critters. They respect animals, helping them find homes where they actually belong—and, of course, their technicians also help people enjoy critter-free dwellings, too. 

Here are a few fun facts about woodchucks from your local wildlife control experts:

• The Woodchuck Is Also Known As The Mouse Bear: That’s because this feisty little critter looks just like a tiny bear when it rises on its hind legs. They even fatten up and hibernate over the winter, just like their heavyweight counterparts.

• Groundhog Day? More Like Groundhog Season: Groundhogs actually do wake up from hibernation right around Groundhog Day: early February is prime time for the little critters to start waking up and socializing. 

• How Much Wood Could A Woodchuck Chuck? The popular tongue twister actually originates from a song written by Robert Hobart Davis for the 1902 musical, The Runaways. “The Woodchuck Song” has since been recorded by various artists, and featured in at least one major film.

• Woodchucks Are Slow: We often think of small rodents as having lightning-fast speed, but this actually isn’t true with the woodchuck—their top speed only reaches about eight miles per hour. This is why their main defense against predators (and shadows) is burrowing underground. Their ability to hide is what challenges humane animal control professionals—not their speed.

• The Tale Of Punxsutawney Phil Starts In Europe: While Groundhog Day itself is an American holiday that began in 1886 with journalist Clymer Freas, the concept might actually have roots in Europe. In ancient European cultures, the actions of badgers and hedgehogs were thought to divulge the future. A woodchuck isn’t at all the same thing (just ask a technician from American Bio-Tech), but Mr. Freas thought they looked similar enough!

Dealing with woodchucks or other creatures around your property? American Bio-Tech serves all of Connecticut with humane animal control. To reach them directly, call (860) 355-1231, or visit their website for more information about their services.