Vancouver Island Marmot

The Vancouver Island Marmot (Marmota vancouverensis) is one of four marmot species found in British Columbia and is endemic (found nowhere else) to Vancouver Island. They are one of the most endangered mammals in North America, if not the world. In 2015 the population was estimated at 250-300 individuals in the wild. They are found in alpine meadows and hibernate for up to seven months of the year. They are social animals and young marmots often engage in play fighting aka marmot boxing. To learn more about the marmots and recovery efforts or to help visit: marmots.org.