Chuck Has A Baby!

Shortly after moving into our home in 2006, we met a Groundhog that lives in the yard.  We affectionately called him “Chuck”.  Chuck was a very fat man and we were excited to see him emerge from his hole each spring.  He showed up summer after summer, until last year.  (Scott snapped these photos from our window in 2007.)

After work today, I pulled into the driveway and spotted a Groundhog in the yard.  Much too slim to be Chuck, I was still happy to see her.  She was clearly not as impressed and took off running.  As she dashed away, I watched her run over her baby.  He somersalted across the lawn.  

He froze in place, too frightened to move…. long enough for me to grab my camera.  I couldn’t believe it when he let me get within inches.  I could have touched him.  Of course, I didn’t for three reasons.  One, I was afraid Mama wouldn’t come back for him if I did.  Two, I was afraid he might bite me.  Three, it is illegal to touch wildlife (and I always follow the rules).

After snapping a few photos, the little man wondered after his Mama into the woods.  I bet this isn’t the last time we will meet.

I was very pleased to make Little Chuck’s acquaintance.  IT WAS AWESOME!