Can Groundhogs Carry Rabies?
Yes — groundhogs (woodchucks) can carry rabies, and they are the rodent most often found rabid in the United States (CDC). Unlike squirrels, mice, and other small rodents, this large rodent is occasionally infected, usually after a fight with a rabid raccoon, so a groundhog bite should be evaluated.
Groundhogs are the notable exception among rodents — more likely to be rabid than mice or squirrels, though not a reservoir species.
Key facts about groundhogs and rabies
- Groundhogs are the rodent species most frequently reported rabid to the CDC; small rodents like mice, squirrels, and chipmunks are almost never infected.
- Most rabid groundhogs are found in the eastern US raccoon-rabies zone and are infected through spillover from rabid raccoons.
- A normally shy groundhog that is active in daylight, aggressive, staggering, or unprovoked can be a warning sign.
- Because groundhogs are the rodent exception, CDC advises evaluating a bite rather than automatically dismissing it as low-risk.
What to do after a groundhog bite or exposure
- Wash the wound with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
- Contact your local health department or a clinician the same day for a rabies risk assessment.
- Report the animal to animal control; if it can be safely captured it may be tested.
- Do not assume "it is just a rodent" — groundhogs are the exception among rodents.
Frequently asked questions
Can you get rabies from a groundhog?
Yes, though it is uncommon. Groundhogs (woodchucks) are the rodent most often found to be rabid in the US, usually after exposure to a rabid raccoon. Any groundhog bite that breaks the skin should be evaluated by a clinician or health department (CDC).
Are groundhogs considered high-risk like raccoons?
No. Raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats are the primary high-risk rabies reservoirs. Groundhogs are a notable rodent exception — more likely to be rabid than other rodents, but not a reservoir species. A bite is still worth evaluating.
Related animals
See the full animal rabies overview.
Sources
This page is for general education and reflects current CDC and WHO rabies guidance. It does not replace urgent medical or veterinary advice. If you may have been exposed to rabies, seek medical care promptly.