Black-capped marmot


The black-capped marmot is a species of rodent in the family Sciuridae. It is endemic to the Russian Far East, but its range is discontinuous and divided into three main parts, each with its own subspecies. The black-capped marmot lives in arctic tundra and alpine habitats from near sea-level to an altitude of. It is a relatively small marmot with a short tail and a distinct brown-black top of the head. Depending on exact subpopulation, they hibernate for 6–8 months each year, which is long for a marmot.
Black-capped Marmot hibernates from September to mid-May. It is a diurnal and sedentary mammal. Black-capped Marmot is subject to extreme conditions throughout the year. Solar altitude plays a significant role in the daily activity pattern of family groups of Black-capped Marmots. So, the terrestrial activity of Black-capped Marmots is dependent on daylight period. They usually eliminate heat by lying on rocks or by entering the burrows. It also alters the soil properties that affect the floral structure and distribution of the Arctic tundra by burrowing, hibernation, trampling and reproduction. The main area where the marmots live are gathered in two larger rooms typically so the family can hibernate in these areas. This is usually where the females give birth.