Groundhogs (also called woodchucks) live in underground burrows across much of the eastern and central parts of North America, especially in open fields and at the edges of woods.

Quick Scoop: Where groundhogs live

  • Continent: Groundhogs are native to North America and occur from eastern Alaska, across southern Canada, and through much of the eastern United States.
  • Landscapes they like: They prefer open country such as fields, pastures, meadows, prairies, and the edges of woodlands rather than deep forests or high rocky mountains.
  • Typical neighborhoods: You can often find them in:
    • Small woodlots and low-elevation forests near clearings.
* Brushy hillsides and areas along roadsides or stream banks.

* Farmland margins, hedgerows, and even suburban yards where there is grass or crops to eat.

Their underground homes

Groundhogs live in burrows they dig themselves in well‑drained soil so the tunnels do not flood. These burrow systems can be extensive, with multiple entrances and separate chambers used for resting, raising young, and even a “bathroom” area.