ABSTRACT
The yellow-bellied marmot occurs at higher elevations in the Rocky and Sierra Mountains, where it occupies rocky outcrops and talus slopes in or adjoining meadows. At high elevations, marmots emerge from hibernation through the snow. At this time, food and cover are scarce and animals are easily trapped. Trapping success declines as green vegetation becomes available. Traps must be checked as late as possible in the evening to prevent an animal from spending the night in a trap. Marmot populations vary from solitary individuals to colonies of 40 or more. Many burrows are present in a marmot habitat, but only a few are residences. Residential burrows usually have fresh feces near the entrance. Burrows occupied by adult males frequently emit a “marmot odor”. Marmots may die in less than an hour in direct sunlight.
