Alpine and subalpine areas between 1,000 and 2,000m characterised by steep slopes, talus debris and open meadows. Endemic to Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Never abundant in the past. The Vancouver Island Marmot has increased in numbers and distribution since the early 1970s. Head and body length about 46cm.
Males are significantly heavier than females.
Diet is herbivorous, consisting especially of the flowering parts of alpine plants. The Vancouver Island Marmot lives in colonies averaging about eight individuals. There are records from about 13 different mountains, all on the central ridge south of the Gold River. The range has evidently contracted considerably since the species discovery in 1910. Decline during the present century is perhaps partly attributable to natural plant succession making some former colonies unsuitable, but it is thought that the major factor has been direct or indirect interference by man.