Beavers and groundhogs get mixed up often! It’s led to a few funny interactions. Once, we showed up to save a “beaver with something wrong with its tail,” only to find that the only thing wrong with her was that she was a groundhog— not meant to have a flat tail! Another time, a caller spaced on the word (something everybody does, ourselves included) and told us she’d found a “land beaver.” We like the term!
You’re not alone if you have trouble reeling these critters apart. In many ways, they’re very similar. Both are large, brown, herbivorous rodents that eat plants and are keystone species within our ecosystem. Once you know what to look for, it shouldn’t be too difficult!
Take a look at this chart for guidance on identifying the differences between beavers and groundhogs. We’re happy to help if you have a photo you’d like help identifying!
For Fox Sake Wildlife Rescue 