The social behaviour of the hoary marmot (Marmota caligata) [Le comportement social de la marmotte givrée].

Résumé

The social behaviour of four colonies of hoary marmots (Marmota caligata) was studied in Glacier National Park. Montana, during the summer of 1970. Colony structure involved a dominant male with a few females (3 years or older), 2-year-olds, yearlings and pups. Patterns of burrow use, greetings, play, and aggressive chasing are described, indicating a closely-integrated social structure with reproductive patterns suggesting late dispersal and maturation. A close resemblance to the behaviour of the Olympic marmot (M. olympus) is proposed.