Alpine marmot

The alpine marmot is a robust ground squirrel native to the mountainous regions of Central and Southern Europe, including the Alps, Carpathians, Tatras, and Northern Apennines. These animals are adeptly adapted to the cold steppes of the Pleistocene era, equipped with excellent digging skills and the ability to hibernate for up to nine months each year. Unfortunately, changes in their habitat have led to a reduction in genetic diversity, making them one of the least genetically diverse wild animals.

Adult alpine marmots measure between 43 and 73 cm in length and weigh between 1.9 and 8 kg. Their fur is a blend of blonde, reddish, and dark gray. They thrive in alpine meadows and high-altitude pastures, where they create intricate burrow systems in alluvial soil or rocky terrain. These herbivores primarily consume plants but will also eat insects and worms and are frequently observed sunbathing to regulate their body temperature and deter parasites.

Alpine marmots are social animals, living in family groups within their sophisticated burrows. They are highly territorial, issuing warning calls to alert against intruders and remaining vigilant for predators. Their mating season begins in spring, with females giving birth to litters of one to seven pups. The newborns are blind at birth, weaned after 40 days, and ready to become independent by the end of summer.

Around October, these marmots commence hibernation, significantly reducing their heart rate and breathing to conserve energy. However, if their fat reserves are insufficient, they may not survive the entire hibernation period. Historically, alpine marmots were hunted for their meat and supposed medicinal properties. Today, they still face threats from hunting and habitat loss in certain areas.

Interestingly, alpine marmots have a history of interaction with humans, sometimes being used for entertainment by traveling performers. While they are not currently at risk of extinction, some populations are vulnerable, underscoring the need for targeted conservation efforts.