What is the difference between a groundhog and a hedgehog?

They are completely different animals. Groundhogs (Marmota monax), which are also called woodchucks, are furry rodents similar to marmots and other ground squirrels. They are found in Canada and the eastern United States. read more

A Groundhog is a totally different species, family Sciuridae, related to marmots and ground squirrels. They look a little like beavers or fat tree squirrels. Groundhogs are much celebrated on February 2nd in the U.S. Supposedly if the ceremonial groundhog sees his shadow on this day, there will be 6 more weeks of winter. read more

As nouns the difference between groundhog and hedgehog is that groundhog is a red-brown marmot, marmota monax , native to north america while hedgehog is small mammal, of the subfamily erinaceinae, characterized by its spiny back and by its habit of rolling itself into a ball when attacked. read more

A Hedgehog, subfamily Erinacinae, is covered in short spines. It resembles an echidna or a little porcupine, though these animals are not related. read more