A: While it makes for a great tongue-twister, the sad answer is: probably none. Woodchucks aren’t particularly tree-oriented, and while they can climb to find food, they prefer being on the ground. In fact, they got the name “woodchuck” from British trappers who couldn’t quite wrap their tongues around the Cree Indian name “wuhak.”
More commonly (and accurately) known as groundhogs, these animals are closely related to squirrels, marmots, and prairie dogs, with which they share an affinity for burrowing. And actually, a burrowing woodchuck can chuck dirt, in the form of tunnels that can reach five feet deep and as much as 35 feet in length.
So, based on that number, New York State wildlife expert Richard Thomas calculated that if a woodchuck could chuck wood, he could chuck as much as 700 pounds of the stuff.
Article comments
1 - Matthew T. Sussman
As I've always said, the woodchuck hypothetical would be much more fun were the bird a peacock instead.
2 - Dawn
Matt, I swear, if only you were as funny as your comments. Badang.
I think the word marmot sounds funny.
We used to call those things Sasquatch in my neck of the woods. Though I am not really sure why.
3 - Clavos
So, based on that number, New York State wildlife expert Richard Thomas calculated that if a woodchuck could chuck wood, he could chuck as much as 700 pounds of the stuff.
The burning question is:
Where would he chuck it? 'Cause you sure don't want to be standing there when he starts!
4 - Matthew T. Sussman
Clavos, you must be interested in lycanthropy. Where would a werewoodchuck chuck wood?
5 - Clavos
Aaarrrggghhh!
First, I had to look up lycanthropy.
Now, after a lot of contemplation, I have to admit I don't get it, Suss.
Unless...nope.
But...naw.
If...uh uh.
Sigh.
(shuffles away, scratching head in befuddlement)
6 - Ruvy in Jerusalem
How much pee could a peacock pee if a peacock's cock could pee?
You wouldn't get very far with the teachers of the juvenile set with that one, Matt.
Especially after the first bright lad brought up the fact that the peacock's cock DOES pee and propsed measuring the number of milliliters... You'd have to toss a shillin' to him for his smarts, and smack him one for his cheek, and do it all with a straight face.
7 - Nancy
The 'woodchuck chucking wood' thing is even funnier in German; wie viel wald soll ein waldchuck chuck wie ein waldchuck chucken wald...? Ein waldchuck chucken wie viele er kanst chuck, wie ein waldchuck chucken wald.
I THINK that's how it went, but my Deutsch is extremely uncertain. Corrections will be welcome, if any.
8 - MAOZ
Well, I suppose we should be glad he's woodchucking and not upchucking!
9 - Clavos
...Chuckle...
10 - Dylan
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