hoary marmot

The hoary marmot (Marmota caligata) is a large, gray marmot native to northwestern North America. It is a species of marmot, which are large, heavy ground squirrels belonging to the genus Marmota.12

Marmots are well-adapted to cold environments with short, stocky legs and strong claws for digging. They inhabit open country in mountains and plains, preferring areas like montane meadows and tundra. Hoary marmots, like other marmot species, are diurnal and primarily vegetarian. They are known to be social animals and hibernate for extended periods, up to nine months, relying on fat reserves accumulated during warmer months. When alarmed, they emit a sharp whistle and retreat to their burrows.2