CUTE! Meet "Chuckles" the woodchuck, who lives a life of luxury indoors in Wisconsin

WEST BEND -- Folks with the Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary have shared adorable video of "Chuckles" the woodchuck on Facebook.

The video shows Chuckles getting his morning massage.

Shalom Wildlife officials say Chuckles isn't just any ground hog -- living a life of luxury indoors, while other woodchucks hibernate the winter away in their earthen dens.

Officials say woodchucks can lose more than 50% of their body weight while hibernating.

Chuckles, on the other hand, actually puts on a pound or two before spring!

Shalom Wildlife officials say each morning, Chuckles eats an entire banana for breakfast. He also enjoys pecan nuts, carrots and the occasional piece of cheddar cheese.

He also loves daily human contact.



About Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary (via ShalomWildlife.com):

"Beginning in 1979, thirty acres of land was purchased with the intent to preserve it from development.  Over the years additional adjacent parcels were acquired. Today the Zoo encompasses 100 acres.  Shalom's wildlife began as a deer farm with native whitetail deer that were purchased from the State of Wisconsin.  People would come to see those "Big Bucks" on guided wagon ride tours through the property.  The tours provided a great opportunity to educate visitors on animals, plants, habitat and Native American culture.   In 1990 Bison and Elk were added for additional  wildlife viewing enjoyment. Soon red fox, raccoon, skunk and mink were purchased and put on exhibit. Every year more species are added. In 2002 self guided tours were made available for those that wanted to walk, and in 2006 golf carts were added for those who were unable to walk.

Although still a working farm, in 2010 Shalom was licensed as a Zoo and is home to over two-hundred animals that are cared for daily.

Shalom is a privately owned federally licensed zoo and receives no government assistance. We are solely funded by the admission fee to the zoo.  Your visits are important to the the future of  Shalom. With your support we strive to improve Shalom Wildlife Zoo."