Mammal · GBIF taxon 2437378
Hoary Marmot
Marmota caligataAlso known as Whistler
The Hoary Marmot is a large silver-gray ground squirrel with dark lower legs and a contrasting pale shoulder region. Family groups occupy rocky alpine slopes and give piercing whistles when danger approaches.
Alpine MammalRocky BurrowAlarm Whistle
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Insects
Predators
- Golden eagles
- Wolves
- Bears
ThreatsClimate-driven habitat change, disturbance, roads, and food conditioning
HabitatsAlpine meadows, talus slopes, boulder fields, and subalpine openings
Life spanOften 10 to 15 years in the wild
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilySciuridae
- SpeciesMarmota caligata
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- A cornered or food-conditioned marmot can bite; never feed, touch, or block a burrow entrance.
- Why it is dangerous
- Large incisors can cause a serious wound when a marmot is cornered, fed, or handled.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Recognize the bulky silver-gray squirrel with dark legs and a pale shoulder mantle.
- What to do
- Never feed or touch a marmot; back away and leave every burrow entrance unobstructed.
Responsible observation
- Sound: Pause after a sharp whistle and scan nearby rocks.
- Distance: Watch from afar without approaching the burrow system.
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