Description and Range
Physical description
Hoary Marmots (Marmota caligata) range in size from 24-32 inches long, including a 6-9 inch tail. They typically weigh between 10 to 20 pounds. Characterized by a mixture of silvery-gray and black fur, giving it a "hoary" or frosted appearance. The head is often lighter in color. They have a stocky body, a bushy tail, and distinctive dark feet and facial markings. The hoary marmot's fur is generally lighter and more silvery compared to other marmot species.
Food and feeding habits
Marmots eat herbaceous plants, roots, and woody vegetation. Marmots hibernate without eating or drinking for seven to eight consecutive months from fall to late spring, relying on accumulated body fat and a much-reduced metabolism.
Den sites and resting sites
Marmots inhabit open country in mountains and plains, preferring montane meadows, steppes, tundra, and forest edges. They live in burrows that they excavate, and most mountain species construct burrows beneath boulder fields, rocky slopes, and crevices in cliff faces. This terrain provides protection from carnivores.
Rocks and cliffs also serve as observation sites where marmots sit upright watching for both terrestrial and aerial carnivores. When alarmed, marmots emit a sharp, piercing whistle and scurry to their burrows if danger persists.
Reproduction
Hoary marmots typically mate in late spring or early summer. Females give birth to a litter of two to six pups after a gestation period of about a month. The young marmots remain in the family group for several weeks before becoming more independent.
Geographic range
Hoary marmots inhabit alpine and subalpine meadows in mountainous regions. Their home range can vary, but it often includes areas with suitable vegetation and soils for foraging and burrow construction. They are endemic in eastern Washington. This mountain species can be found mostly in rocky terrain or alpine meadows dominated by grasses, sedges, herbs, and forest patches.
Rocks and cliffs also serve as observation sites where marmots sit upright watching for both terrestrial and aerial carnivores. When alarmed, marmots emit a sharp, piercing whistle and scurry to their burrows if danger persists.
Living with wildlife
A marmot’s search for food and shelter may bring it to your property. Marmots are wild animals, and their behavior can be unpredictable. Do not approach or attempt to handle the marmot and don't feed them, as it can alter their natural behavior and diet. If you experience human-wildlife conflict, follow the tips under the Preventing Conflict header or contact WDFW for assistance.
Public Health Concerns
Marmots generally pose no significant public health concerns. However, like any wild animal, they can carry diseases. It's crucial to avoid direct contact with wild marmots and other rodents to minimize any potential health risks.
Preventing conflict
Non-lethal methods of deterrence
In conflict situations it's important to address the root cause of the marmot activity, such as the availability of food sources or suitable burrowing sites. Combine several of these methods for a more effective and humane approach to deter marmots from specific areas.
Fencing: Install mesh fencing around vulnerable areas. Make sure the fence is buried a few inches underground to prevent marmots from digging underneath.
Repellents: Use natural repellents, such as carnivore urine (ex. fox or coyote) or garlic-based sprays, around the perimeter of your garden or property.
Noise and Vibrations: Marmots can be sensitive to loud noises and vibrations. Devices emitting ultrasonic sounds or placing vibrating devices in the affected area may discourage them. Sonic alarms near burrow systems are one way to deter all species of marmots, although these devices can be expensive and are not always effective.
Physical Barriers: Place physical barriers like rocks, gravel, or wire mesh around plants or garden beds to make it less appealing for marmots to dig or access.
Natural Carnivores: Encourage the presence of natural carnivores like birds of prey or snakes. This may help keep marmot populations in check.
Companion Planting: Planting aromatic herbs or flowers that marmots find unappealing can act as a deterrent. Examples include mint, garlic, or marigolds.
Habitat Modification: Remove hiding spots, such as tall grass or piles of debris, as marmots prefer areas where they can hide easily.
Trapping: Trapping and releasing on site is another option, but is effort intensive and often ineffective.
For additional nuisance wildlife information visit the Trapping nuisance wildlife and Hiring a Wildlife Control Operator pages.
Lethal Control
Lethal control is a last resort and is rarely a long-term solution since other marmots are likely to move in if food, water, or shelter remains available.