Scent-marking in the yellow-bellied marmot (Marmota flaviventris)

Cheek-marking in yellow-bellied marmots (Marmota flaviventris) was studied by observations of cheek-marking in two colonies from 10 June to 6 August, 1996 and by experimental studies of responses to olfactory secretions from the perioral gland. The rate of cheek-marking declined significantly as the season progressed. Most cheek-marking occurred within 3 m of the main burrow system and was primarily associated with sitting or lying and short locomotory bouts around the main burrow area. Cheek-marking rates of individuals differed significantly and adults appeared to mark more than yearlings. In the experiment, marmots cheek-marked stakes with perioral secretions significantly more than stakes without secretions. However, they marked unfamiliar and familiar smells equally. Marmots investigated strange secretions longer than familiar secretions and familiar secretions longer than the blank treatment. Functionally, cheekmarking is a multipurpose activity. It provides cues for young of the year to learn the safe areas in the home range, imparts familiarity with the burrow area, communicates burrow occupancy, and functions in territorial defense.