Marmot

Marmots are large ground-dwelling squirrels in the genus Marmota, found across the Northern Hemisphere.

Marmots are large ground-dwelling squirrels in the genus Marmota, found across the Northern Hemisphere. They are herbivorous, live in burrows, and typically hibernate for much of the winter.

What it is

Marmots are stout-bodied rodents in the squirrel family Sciuridae, with short legs, rounded ears, and strong claws for digging. They rank among the larger members of the squirrel family and are found only in the Northern Hemisphere.

Key details

Marmots live in mountain slopes, open grasslands, and other northern habitats across Asia, Europe, and North America. They are mainly herbivorous, feeding on grasses, leaves, flowers, seeds, and roots. Many species live in social groups and give loud warning whistles when threatened.

Why it matters

A defining feature of marmots is their long winter hibernation, lasting several months in underground burrows, relying on stored fat reserves. In Canada, marmots occur especially in western mountain regions, and in Quebec they are commonly called 'siffleux'.