January 29, 2021 URBANA, Ill. – Every year, Punxsutawney Phil’s appearance on Feb. 2 is a reminder we are halfway through winter and shadow or no shadow spring is on its way. Groundhogs, Marmota monax, are Illinois’ largest squirrel and one of the state’s few hibernating species. Ranging from Alabama to Alaska, groundhogs are common in rural areas and in recent years found more frequently in suburbs and cities. “A rodent with many names, groundhogs are also known as woodchucks or, if you have traveled far enough south, whistle pigs for their alarming call,” says Peggy Doty, University of Illinois Extension energy and environmental stewardship educator. “I’ve also heard them called dirt hams.”