Alpine Marmot (Marmota marmota)

The Alpine Marmot is a squirrel relative found in Central and Southern Europe. It resides in rocky terrain and lush alpine meadows between 800 and 3,200 meters above sea level. 

The marmot digs burrows for shelter that can reach depths up to 3 meters, often located among the region's native flora, which makes up the marmot's diet. 

Likewise, the Alpine Marmot usually lives in colonies of up to 20 members. Each colony is a large family led by a dominant breeding pair and filled with their offspring.

Alpine marmots are hardy creatures built for survival in harsh climates. These squirrels hibernate  for up to nine months during the icy winters, only emerging when spring arrives. 

The Alpine marmot also does a unique whistle, echoing through the mountain air, which signals the rest of the colony that danger is near.