Last week, a wild marmot was found in an unexpected travel spot when it was discovered nestled in the wheel well of a Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance field truck.
The furry stowaway enjoyed a nearly three-hour ride with the Field Conservation team and emerged completely unharmed, as confirmed in a Thursday Facebook post by the zoo.
The Alliance expressed gratitude to their Animal Care, Veterinary Medicine, and Field Conservation teams for providing the marmot with a full health check and safely returning it to its original location near Minturn, CO.
Upon release, the marmot quickly scurried to a nearby rock pile, observed the team for a moment, and then disappeared into the wilderness.
Many Facebook users commended the Alliance for their efforts in assisting the marmot and ensuring its safe return home. One commenter joked, “He’ll be sharing this adventure with his friends all summer,” while another quipped, “He just wanted a tour of the zoo!”
The Alliance advises nature enthusiasts to thoroughly inspect their vehicles, particularly the wheel wells and undercarriages, before departing from trailheads or mountain areas this season to protect local wildlife seeking refuge in or around parked cars.
This precautionary measure helps safeguard wildlife habitats. For assistance with wildlife-related concerns or to report potential animal sightings in vehicles, the Denver Parks and Recreation Department’s wildlife management page offers valuable resources and guidance.
For immediate assistance, contact a wildlife specialist through the Wildlife Hotline at 720-913-0630.
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