Description and Range
Physical description
Yellow-bellied Marmot (Marmota flaviventris) range in size from about 18-28 inches long, including a 6-8 inch tail. They typically weigh between 5 to 11 pounds. Their fur is usually brown with a yellowish to orange tint on the belly and chest. They may also have white patches between their eyes and nose. They have a less robust build compared to other marmots and are known for their lighter, yellowish belly, which contrasts with their darker upper body.
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
Yellow-bellied marmots are known for their complex social structure. This species breeds shortly after emerging from hibernation in the spring. Females give birth to a litter of three to eight pups after a gestation period of about a month. The pups are weaned after a few weeks but, stay with the family group.
Home range
Yellow-bellied marmots can be found in Washington’s lower elevations and in more arid environments than other marmot species in Washington. They typically live in open habitats such as steppes, alpine meadows, pastures, gravel-covered fields, and forest edges. Yellow-bellied marmots are found in a variety of habitats, including mountainous areas, meadows, and rocky slopes. Their home range can be quite extensive, and they are known to dig complex burrow systems for shelter.
Geographic range
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 more information: visit Trapping nuisance wildlife and Hiring a Wildlife Control Operator.
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.