Researchers are highlighting the plight of marmots that live in high-altitude areas. A tough winter led to the death of two-thirds of one population due to insufficient snow cover. The surviving marmots are now preparing for hibernation by fattening up.

This preparation is being celebrated with the first Fat Marmot Week, an online event that allows people to vote for their favorite marmot. The event is similar to Fat Bear Week and is intended to be fun, but it also serves a serious purpose.

The event aims to raise donations for ongoing research into marmots, which is facing funding cuts. Further details about Fat Marmot Week and the research are available from the source.