Groundhog

Also known as woodchucks, land beavers, or whistlepigs, groundhogs are rodents in the Sciuridae family. They generally live for 2-3 years, and are covered with two coats of fur, giving them a “frosted” appearance. Groundhogs are excellent burrowers, able to dig up over 700 pounds of dirt. Burrows are usually very large with 2-5 entrances and used for rearing young and sleeping.

What they eat: Primarily wild grasses, but also berries, insectsgrubs, snails and small animals.

Where they live: North America: mainly central and northeastern U.S., as well as western Canada, Alaska and Washington.

Claim to fame: Groundhog Day, Feb. 2, celebrated mainly in New York and Pennsylvania. According to legend, if upon emerging from his burrow and the groundhog (Punxsutawney Phil being the most famous) does not see his shadow due to cloudy skies, winter will soon end. Otherwise, if he does see his shadow, six more weeks of winter are ahead. The earliest known reference to Groundhog Day dates back to 1841 in Pennsylvania. More recently Groundhog Day was the basis for a 1993 movie of the same name starring Bill Murray.

Source: Wikipedia