Bioacoustics of Marmota (Marmota) bobak

Movements, Home range and Social organization. Burrow systems are extensive and complex—likely a reflection of the large communal social groups. The Bobak Marmot forms colonies of several families, with dominant male, adult female, two-year-old and one-year-old offspring, and young-of-the-year as the fundamental unit. Density of family groups in the Ukraine was 2-2 families/ha, and family groups consist of 4-5 individuals. Communication is primarily by vocalization and chemical or visual cues. Scent marking with oral and cheek secretions on structures and burrows appears to be used to mark territories. Individuals practice vigilance while standing on their haunches and emit a sharp piercing alarm call that elicits awareness and vigilance by group members.