Massachusetts Wildlife Rehabilitator Practice Exam

Which animal is known to be herbivorous?

1. Woodchuck

2. Opossum

3. Raccoon

4. Bobcat

The correct answer is: Woodchuck

The woodchuck, also known as a groundhog, is classified as a herbivorous animal primarily because its diet consists mainly of plants. Woodchucks feed on a variety of vegetation including grasses, fruits, and vegetables, which are all plant-based sources of nutrition. This herbivorous diet supports their growth, reproduction, and overall health. In contrast, the other animals listed, such as opossums and raccoons, are omnivorous, meaning they consume both plant and animal matter. Opossums may eat fruits, insects, and small animals, while raccoons are known for their scavenging behavior, eating anything from fruits to small vertebrates. Bobcats, on the other hand, are carnivorous hunters that primarily eat small mammals and birds, relying on a diet that consists exclusively of animal matter. This distinction highlights how the woodchuck fits the definition of being herbivorous, as it solely relies on plant materials for sustenance.