Can These Groundhog Tattoos Determine Whether There Will Be Six More Weeks of Winter?

A groundhog is a species of rodent found only in Canada and the US – mainly in Alaska, most Canadian provinces and eastern US states. The animal is also referred to as land beavers, monax, or a whistlepig.

Groundhogs will stand on their hind legs and let out a loud whistle to warn other groundhogs of impending danger or predators such as foxes or coyotes. The animal did just that when featured in Ariana Grande’s music video for her song “God is a Woman”.

Groundhogs are one of a number of animals to hibernate through winter. They will double their weight prior as their hibernation may last anywhere from three to six months.

Like many animals, groundhogs are important to the environment and ecosystem as they maintain healthy soil. They are extremely intelligent, but can fall victim to farmers angry with them for eating their crops.

Whilst researching groundhogs, I was shocked to discover that bubble gum is suggested to eliminate these animals; the hungry little critters will happily eat it, but they are unable to digest it and ultimately die.

Female groundhogs are pregnant for a month and will give birth to up to six babies, and just like the animal itself, there are several terms for groundhog young – they’re referred to as kits, pups or chucklings.

In the US, February 2 is Groundhog Day where if a groundhog sees its shadow and returns back to its hole after already having hibernated, there will be a further six weeks of winter. Whereas the term Groundhog Day is derived from the 1993 Bill Murray film where he lives the same day over and over again. Funnily enough, the collective noun for a group of groundhogs is a repetition.

You won’t find any reptition here with these tattoos – I’ve selected the top five groundhog tattoos in various styles to share with you. Which is your favourite?

Artist: @chelseashoneck