Groundhogs!
Posted by Claire Earnhart on January 30, 2006
Q: The groundhog saw his shadow a bit early this year. I saw a very skinny groundhog on the road near a forest on January 27th. It has been very warm here in Northeastern Kentucky this January, so I was not surprised to find it. What I was wondering is, how will this affect the groundhog, will he go back into hibernation if it ever gets cold or will he stay somewhat awake until mating season?
Habitat: forest/open woods
State: Kentucky
Habitat: forest/open woods
A: It has been especially warm in northern New York state too. The Groundhog you saw had awakened from sleep and was checking things out a bit. Actually, contrary to general belief, Groundhogs don't hibernate at all but are in a much lighter sleep "mode" than true hibernators! They do sleep a lot during the winter but are awake off and on and poke their nose out of the ground during the winter. Even though it seems to remain warmish, I think your animal will return to his burrow and go back to sleep at least for awhile. If the weather stays warm though, he may be popping up above ground more often than usual. Thanks for asking.
John Wiessinger ( January 31, 2006)