When do woodchucks typically emerge from hibernation?

• A. December
• B. Late February and March
• C. January
• D. November

Answer: (B)

Woodchucks are true hibernators. In winter they spend extended periods in torpor within their burrows, lowering their metabolism and staying largely inactive. Emergence happens as temperatures rise and food becomes available in early spring. In New York, most woodchucks come out to forage in late February to March, when the ground warms, snow recedes, and greens or other foods start to appear. December and January are typically still within the deep part of hibernation, while November is before hibernation begins. While there can be some year-to-year variation, late February to March is the standard time they reappear above ground.