Say hello to the Hoary marmot, also known as the “whistle pig” — and for good reason! This big, furry ground squirrel lives in the mountains of northwest North America, and it’s famous for its loud, high-pitched warning whistles. If you’re ever hiking through alpine meadows and hear a sharp wheeeet echoing across the valley, chances are a Hoary marmot spotted you first! These marmots are chunky, with short legs, a bushy tail, and thick fur that’s sprinkled with white hairs, giving them a frosted or “hoary” look — like they’re wearing a dusting of mountain snow all year round.

One of the coolest things about Hoary marmots is how they survive life in some of the toughest environments. They spend the short, warm summers stuffing themselves with grasses, flowers, and anything green they can find. Why? Because when winter hits, these marmots don’t mess around — they hibernate for up to eight months! Before they tuck in for the long, cold season, they bulk up by almost doubling their weight. They dig cozy burrows deep into the ground, where they snooze through the freezing months like true champions of chill.

Hoary marmots aren’t just sleepy; they’re also incredibly social. They live in small colonies where family groups share burrows and keep watch for predators like eagles and foxes. When danger appears, one marmot lets out a sharp whistle to warn everyone else to dive for cover. It’s basically their version of a neighborhood alarm system. During their active months, you can often spot them sunbathing lazily on rocks, wrestling playfully with siblings, or simply sitting upright like little, furry statues keeping an eye on the world.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Canada

2016

United States

2016

Washington, Montana, Idaho, Alaska