Discover marmots in Filzmoos: insights into the life of the furry mountain dwellers

Marmots are also at home in the area around Filzmoos at the Bachlalm and are a well-known species in the Alps. The furry animals live in colonies, the number of which can vary depending on the area. As a rule, however, they inhabit extensive rocky areas and prefer to move around near grassy areas and meadows. Marmots are very active, especially in the summer months, and hibernate during the cold season. It is quite exciting to observe these cute animals in their natural habitat.

During the summer, the furry mountain dwellers forage for food, which mainly consists of grasses, herbs and leaves. In the process, they regularly build up stocks to be prepared for the winter. The marmots live in burrows they have dug themselves, which are equipped with several entrances and passages. In addition, marmots are very social animals and keep in close contact with each other. The leader of the group is usually an older, experienced animal that shows its conspecifics the way and warns them of danger.

Tips for a successful sighting in nature

One of the most important tips is to be patient. Marmots are shy animals and need time to come out of their burrow and feel safe. A quiet position at a sufficient distance is therefore important in order not to frighten the animals.

Another important tip is to pay attention to the weather conditions. Marmots are cold-adapted and therefore stay outside longer in colder temperatures. They are also more active after a rain shower or during a cool breeze. The best times to observe marmots are therefore early in the morning or late in the evening.

When observing, care should also be taken not to get too close to the animals or disturb them in their natural environment. Photographs should always be taken with respect and consideration. With these tips and a little luck, a successful marmot sighting in nature can become an unforgettable experience.

A look at their natural environment

Marmots are characteristic inhabitants of the alpine landscape and can be observed in the Austrian mountains around Filzmoos. The habitat they occupy is limited to altitudes above 1000 metres, where they live in groups and defend territorial boundaries. The animals are perfectly adapted to the conditions of their natural habitat, with their thick fur that keeps them warm and their robust body structure that enables them to climb rocky and steep terrain.

Marmots are diurnal and spend most of their day resting in the sun or foraging for food. A typical meal consists of grasses, herbs, roots and other plants that grow in their habitat. Although they have to protect themselves from enemies such as eagles, wolves or foxes, they are by no means shy and often allow themselves to be observed by curious tourists. For nature lovers, observing marmots in the wild is a rewarding experience due to their interesting behaviour and the unique opportunities they offer.

The social behaviour of marmots: How they live together in groups

The social behaviour of marmots is of great importance, as these animals live together in groups. These groups consist of a mother and her young as well as other adult marmots. The groups usually consist of 5-10 animals and live in hollowed out burrows in the mountains.

There is a clear hierarchy within the group, with the oldest and most experienced marmots taking the lead. These animals have the task of protecting, warning and leading the group. When an enemy is nearby, there is a special alarm call that causes all the marmots to flee to their burrows in the shortest possible time.

The social behaviour of marmots is a fascinating study of coexistence and communication in nature. If you are in Filzmoos, you should definitely try to observe these animals in their natural habitat to get an impression of their fascinating social behaviour.