There are a lot of ways to know that colder weather is finished and summer is getting closer in Victoria—roses and peonies start to bloom, apple and cherry trees start to develop their fruit and music festivals take over downtown.
But there’s one way to tell that winter is in the rearview mirror that’s a little more whimsical—the first wild marmot spotting of the year!
While marmots may not be the most accurate forecasters, they’re deeply entwined in folklore and cultural ways of knowing. Marmot sightings have been associated with changing seasons for centuries by cultures all over the world.
And we’ve got some good news!
The Marmot Recovery Foundation has just announced that they’ve had their first wild marmot sighting of the year on Vancouver Island.
The foundation said that they had detected the animals with telemetry since April, but had yet to have eyes on one of these creatures—that is, until last week!
On Thursday, May 7th, Heather Heim and Adam Taylor were able to catch snapshots of two of the animals.
The two marmots (Joey and Mayzie) were found foraging together, although the foundation did not specify where they had been spotted.
This particular species of marmot is an extremely rare sight.
The Vancouver Island marmot is one of only five species endemic to Canada. This region is the only one in the world with the privilege of seeing these furry friends.
Unfortunately, this marmot is endangered. In 2003, only 22 of these marmots were able to be located.
The Marmot Recovery Foundation’s stated mission is to save the Vancouver Island marmot from extinction.
And in some positive news, this year the foundation’s annual report counted 420 of the animals—the most ever documented in the wild.
“We were curious with very low snowpack to see if they would be coming out earlier, but they were pretty much on time,” Adam Taylor told Victoria Buzz.
“I think it’s a pretty good sign to see them right as they’re coming out of hibernation. That side of it all is so far, pretty good. So far, there’s nothing unusual, aside from no snow mountains.”
Upon being asked if there is anything the public can do to help the survival of these animals, Taylor mentioned that donations are what keep the foundation going.
“Donations is what makes the recovery possible. Donations is what makes up the vast majority of our funding. We are very grateful for everyone who donates and supports our work.”
For more information on these little marmots and the Marmot Recovery Foundation, or to donate to the cause, visit their website here.
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