A wild marmot found an unusual travel spot last week when it was discovered nestled in the wheel well of a Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance field truck.
The furry but adorable stowaway ended up taking a nearly three-hour ride with the Field Conservation team. The marmot was completely unharmed during its journey, according to a Thursday Facebook post by the zoo.
“Thanks to our incredible Animal Care, Veterinary Medicine and Field Con teams, he received a full health check and was safely returned the very next day to the exact spot near Minturn, CO, where he climbed aboard,” the Alliance wrote.
“Upon release, he darted to a nearby rock pile, kept a close eye on us for a few minutes, and then called out as he disappeared back into the wild.”
Facebook commenters were quick to show their support for the Alliance’s efforts in helping the marmot and bringing it home. One user commented, “He’ll be telling the story to his friends all summer,” while another wrote, “He just wanted to visit the zoo!”
The alliance encourages all nature lovers to carefully inspect their vehicles, especially wheel wells and undercarriages, before driving away from trailheads and mountain areas this summer.
This precaution helps protect local wildlife that may seek shelter in or around parked cars.
If a marmot or other animal might be hiding in a vehicle, or if there are any questions about wildlife, the Denver Parks and Recreation Department’s wildlife management page offers helpful resources and guidance.
A wildlife specialist may also be reached through the Wildlife Hotline at 720-913-0630.
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