Vancouver Island Marmot
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| Vancouver Island Marmot Conservation status: Endangered | ||||||||||||||||
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| Marmota vancouverensis (Swarth, 1911) |
The Vancouver Island Marmot (Marmota vancouverensis) is found only in the high mountainous regions of Vancouver Island. They can be distinguished from other marmots by their rich, chocolate brown fur and contrasting white patches. It is one of the world's rarest mammals, with a population of around 100 individuals. In 2003 there were fewer than 30 but with a captive-breeding program they are being slowly reintroduced into natural habitats. Its closest relative on the mainland is the Hoary Marmot, Marmota caligata.
They live in small colonies in subalpine meadows on steep, avalanche-prone slopes, preferring those with a southern exposure. They usually hibernate 8 months out of the year.
These animals are herbivores, eating berries, flowers, leaves, roots and bark.
Mating occurs in early spring. Females bear 3 to 5 young after a 30 day gestation period; most mature females breed every second year. After they are two years old, the young marmots attempt to find their own territories.
Predators include golden eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, pumas and black bears. The primary cause of their declining population has been loss of habitat due to logging and other human activity.