Alpine Marmot parc des Ecrins National Park Alps Marmota claws feet closeup wild rodent wildlife hibernate hibernation at 2600m
When creating a burrow, they use both their forepaws and hind feet to assist in the work—the forepaws scrape away the soil, which is then pushed out of the way by the hind feet. If there are any stones in the way, providing they aren't too large, the Alpine Marmot will remove them with its teeth. "Living areas" are created at the end of a burrow, and are often lined with dried hay, grass and plant stems. Any other burrow tunnels that go nowhere are used as toilet areas. Once burrows have been completed, they only host one family, but are often enlarged by the next generation, sometimes creating very complex burrows over time. Each Alpine Marmot will live in a group that consists of several burrows, and which has a dominant breeding pair. Alpine Marmots are very defensive against intruders, and will warn them off using intimidating behavior, such as beating of the tail and chattering of the teeth, and by marking their territory with their scent. One can often see an Alpine Marmot "standing" while they keep a look-out for potential predators or other dangers. If one is spotted, they will emit a loud whistle or chirp—one whistle is given for possible airborne predators, more for ground predators The mating season for Alpine Marmots occurs in the spring, right after their hibernation period comes to a close, which gives their offspring the highest possible chance of surviving the coming winter. Alpine Marmots are able to breed once they reach an age of two years. Once the female is pregnant, she will take bedding materials (such as grass) into the burrow for when she gives birth, after a gestation period of 33–34 days. Each litter consists of between one to seven babies, through this number is usually three. All the babies are born blind, and within several days all will have grown dark fur. The weaning period takes a further forty days, during which time the mother will leave the young in the burrow while she searches for food.
Size: 5100px × 3400px
Location: Massif des Ecrins Mount Pelvoux Near Briancon Alpes Haute Provence France
Photo credit: © DV Wildlife / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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