Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Patient of the Week: Groundhog

Warning: Extreme cuteness!

This baby groundhog was found lethargic and alone in Stafford, VA. Fortunately, the finder realized that this baby was much too young to be on her own for such an extended period of time and called us for advice.

Once it was determined that this baby was in need of rehabilitative care, the finder got her to the Center quickly.

On exam this baby was very thin and very dehydrated. After receiving fluids and warming up, she was feeling much better!

Groundhogs sometimes get a bad rap, but these rodents are very important in our ecosystem! They promote soil health with their burrows by aerating and fertilizing the land. And these burrows also help prevent surface runoff during times of heavy precipitation. Even after the groundhog moves on, other wildlife use their well-constructed burrows for shelter.

A groundhog this size (just 150 grams—same as a deck of cards!) should still be nursing and staying close to her mother and siblings in the safety of the burrow.

If you come across a baby groundhog—or any young wild animal—alone for an extended period, don’t wait to act. Give us a call or contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator to determine whether the animal is truly orphaned and in need of help.

Thanks to the compassion of one community member, this little groundhog has a second chance—and one day, she’ll help keep our wild spaces healthy too.

Looking for an easy way to help native wildlife? Become a monthly BRWC donor! For as little as $5/month, you can provide year-round, sustainable support that helps us fulfill our mission.