Fat, Lazy Marmot

The marmot is most closely related to a squirrel. Found not only in the Americas, but also in Europe and Asia, it belongs to the genus Marmota with 15 identifiable species.

Marmota flaviventris

The groundhogs or woodchucks found in the eastern US are part of this genus. In the western US, there is a subgenus called “Petromarmota” that includes the Hoary marmot, Olympic, Vancouver Island and yellow-bellied marmot. What is typically seen in Colorado is the yellow-bellied variety, and is considered a type of ground squirrel. They live either in complicated, maze-like burrows under alpine meadows or under rock piles. Hibernating for over half the year, during the warm season, they feed on grasses, berries, lichens, mosses, roots, flowers, insects and even bird eggs. Being very social animals, they use loud whistle-like calls to communicate and warn. This has led to another name for them – the “whistlepig.”

Marmots are opportunists as well. In areas that humans frequent, we have found marmots quickly learn that these two-legged creatures bring delectable and irresistible treats. Marmots have chewed their way into our tent, made use of our sleeping bags and shredded anything left in our campsite within their reach that was salty. The marmot pictured here was found at a trail intersection along Squaw Creek in the Weminuche Wilderness. This opportunistic critter had learned to make a more dishonest living by soliciting treats from frequent human visitors, hence it’s rather plump size and lack of any fear. We did not accommodate its begging.  Photo taken 08/2018