Himalayan Marmot

One of the highest elevation mammals in the world, the marmot lives in the Himalayan regions of India, Nepal, and Pakistan, mainly between timberline and snowline, at heights of 3,500 to 5,200 m. These regions frequently see temperatures between 8°C and 12°C, which is normal for animals living in arid alpine meadows with minimal precipitation.

Alpine meadows, grasslands, and desserts are just a few of the dry, open habitats where Himalayan marmots can be found. The Northwestern Himalayan alpine shrub and meadows ecoregion contains a large portion of their habitat. Stunted evergreen shrubs and patches of woodland dominated by birch make up the majority of the vegetation in this ecoregion. This ecosystem, which is dominated by shrubs, transforms into open alpine meadows at higher elevations.

The Hoary marmot, Yellow-bellied marmot, and the woodchuck are close relatives. The dark chocolate-brown coat of Himalayan marmots contrasts with bright yellow patches on their cheeks and chest. According to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, it is categorized as Least Concerned.