February marmot

 

For the previous four years, I have used the title, March marmot, to signal my first marmot sighting of the year. This year the title had to be revised.

Yellow-bellied Marmots hibernate through the winter and emerge when it becomes warm. In 2012 and 2013, I noticed my first marmot during the last third of March. In 2014 and 2015, it was the middle third of March. This year it was the last third of February (the 24th). 

Now, these observations are made casually; I don’t go out of my way to be systematic. Yet, there does seem to be a trend whereby emergence has moved earlier by over a month.

This marmot tried to attract my attention. It wanted me to provide a recommendation to an agency that needs…

animal models for a hood ornament.

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6 Responses to February marmot

  1. Erika says:

    Love the post Alistair! Our whole office is chuckling about the hood ornament pose.

  2. Grace says:

    Even though your sightings are not totally scientific I think they are a significant observation. It can be considered as anecdotal evidence to global warming. And I love your humorous commentary. Thanks.

  3. Douglas Thorburn says:

    That marmot spend the winter doing pilates! Nice pose…

  4. Irene McIlwaine says:

    I have ever seen a marmot look so splendid. many thanks

  5. Anita T says:

    Of course Pennywise enjoys your photos, blog and guidance to the wonders of Kootenay Lake. I retired from there in October, and just now got internet at home. I’m more in the boonies than almost anyone. Love the hood ornament.

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