Marmot in a Patch of Flowers

This largest member of the squirrel family typically weigh 7-15 pounds and are 12-24 inches long. They have a short, bushy tail and fur that is usually yellowish brown to gray, brown or black. Their strong claws help them dig and maintain the burrowing system they share with their colonies of 10-20 marmots. They hibernate for about eight months. They communicate with a sharp whistle to warn their mates when predators approach.