marmots

Marmots are large ground-dwelling mammals in the squirrel family, belonging to the genus Marmota. They are native to mountainous regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, from the Alps and Himalayas to the Rocky Mountains and the Arctic-tundra fringe. The genus includes several species, such as the alpine marmot (Marmota marmota), yellow-bellied marmot (Marmota flaviventris), hoary marmot (Marmota caligata), and the Vancouver Island marmot (Marmota vancouverensis).

Physically, marmots are stocky with short limbs, a thick fur coat, and a relatively short tail. Body length typically ranges from about 40 to 60 centimeters, with masses from 2 to 8 kilograms depending on species. They inhabit open habitats such as alpine meadows, grasslands, and tundra, often digging and living in extensive underground burrow systems that provide shelter and hibernation space.

Marmots are mostly diurnal and social, living in colonies or family groups. They feed mainly on vegetation, including grasses, forbs, seeds, and bark, and may supplement diets with insects. They often cache food for winter and spring. A notable behavior is the loud whistling alarm call used to warn colony members of predators; some individuals function as sentinels while others forage.

Breeding occurs in spring after emergence from hibernation, with litters typically containing several pups after a gestation around 30 days. Pups are weaned in a few weeks and become independent later in the season. Marmots undergo long winter hibernation in colder regions. While many marmot populations are listed as of least concern, some species face localized declines due to habitat loss, climate change, and human disturbance, prompting conservation actions such as habitat protection and, for highly endangered forms like Marmota vancouverensis, captive breeding and reintroduction programs.