The groundhog — also known as the woodchuck — belongs to the order Rodentia, which includes squirrels, prairie dogs, and chipmunks. Within this diverse group only beavers and porcupines are larger than groundhogs. They are most often brown or rusty-brown in colour, although some individuals may be black.

Commonly found in open, grassy areas, these mammals usually dig their burrows in areas where short-growing plants provide food. Because they are the major hole-digging mammal in eastern North America, they are equipped with sturdy claws and thick, strong legs. Groundhog burrows provide shelter to all sorts of animals, including skunks, raccoons, foxes, rabbits, and snakes.